The purpose of the project is to reduce hazardous fuels along the highway by using high-intensity, short-duration livestock grazing (targeted grazing) to remove and trample dense vegetation before it becomes a fire hazard.
Location
The project area includes a 1,000-foot corridor, about 7 miles long, on the east and west sides of AZ 87 north of Goldfield Estates and Bush Hwy.
Project timeline
1
Scoping Start
04/09/2024
2
Decision
07/2025 (Estimated)
3
Implementation
08/2025 (Estimated)
NEPA / regulatory detail
| Categorical Exclusion | 32.3(11) |
| Special Authority | 2021 Infrastructure: Fuel Break Ce |
| Notice and Comment Regulation | Not Subject to Regulations |
| Project Activity | Fuel Treatments (Non-Activity Fuels); Grazing Authorizations |
| Targeted Grazing for Fuels Reduction Along Arizona State Highway 87 (AZ 87) | Decision Signed Date: 07/31/2025 |
| Forests | Tonto National Forest |
| Districts | Mesa Ranger District |
| Legal Land Description | Township 3N., Range 8E. and Township 4N., Range 8E |