Pioneer Fire Update

The lightning caused Pioneer Fire (approx. 7 miles south of Globe & west of Highway 77) on the east side of East Mountain, has now burned 300 acres. There are 170 personnel working the fire consisting of the Payson Hotshots, Pleasant Valley Hotshots, Geronimo Hotshots, Prescott Hotshots, 7 engines, 2 bulldozers, 1 water tender, & aerial resources as needed. The fire is now 10% contained. Despite the steep terrain, thick vegetation, and difficult access of the fire's location, June 18th, is still the estimated containment date.Burnout operations were conducted last night. Aerial resources will be assisting ground crews today in holding the line at Forest Service Road 112 near Pioneer Pass. Smoke is expected to be visible around the East Mountain area for next 5 days. The public is asked to please use caution on Highway 77 because of fire equipment and fire traffic.The public is also being advised to avoid the fire area, the Pioneer Pass Recreation Site, and the East Mountain Trail.The estimated cost to date is approx. $218,000.