Yesterday, hotshot crews constructed a containment line north and east of the Mt. Graham International Observatory. In an effort to prepare the observatory for any potential flame front, structural protection efforts continue. Late in the day, bulldozers started widening the road around the Observatory. Air attack has been crucial in assisting firefighters by dropping retardant on Forest Service Road 507, which is adjacent to the Observatory. Officials will complete burnout operations today along 507 and continue with air suppression support. According to Paul Summerfelt, Deputy Incident Commander for the Southwest Area Incident Management Team, “Everyday is crucial for the Observatory. Everyday we hold the line here, is a victory for us.” The fire is currently three-quarters of a mile from the Observatory.

Yesterday, Hotshot crews were successful in putting in a containment line on the east end of the Nuttall Fire Complex, which is located from Swift Trail to south of Arcadia campground and north of Turkey Flats. Crews will continue to strengthen this line and complete burnout operations today.

Firefighters are also cutting brush and trees, placing foam or gel, and wrapping summerhouses with insulated thermal sheets in the Turkey Flat and Old Columbine areas and preparing for burnout operations. Burnout preparation and structural protection efforts are also occurring at Heliograph Peak .

On the upper south side on the Complex, firefighters attempted to burn out along Swift Trail or State Road 366 but stopped when fire activity intensified. They will continue burnout operations today contingent on weather conditions.

Firefighters completed burnout operations on the west side of the fire and officials are confident that this line will hold.

As a reminder, the Southwest Area Incident Management Team, in partnership with the Coronado National Forest, will conduct a Nuttall Fire Complex community meeting tonight, July 5, 2004. The meeting will be held at the Ruth Powell School (Media Room) beginning at 6 PM. The school is located at 1041 14th Ave. in Safford, across the street from the Safford High School. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend the community meeting.

For more information, call Nuttall Fire Complex at (928) 348-9425, (928) 348-0261, or (928) 348-4638 between the hours of 7 AM and 9:30 PM or visit www.fireteam-sw.com/oltrogge/incidents/nuttall.

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