U.S. Forest Service

Coronado National Forest.

As Memorial Day approaches, five of the state’s six national forests are already under fire restrictions. 

Coronado National Forest became the sixth forest to impose fire restrictions to offset dry conditions.

The southern Arizona forest was joined by Saguaro National Monument, as well as numerous parks, historical sites and wildlife refuges statewide. Public lands agencies remind travelers that hot cars, cigarettes and dragging tow chains can ignite dry grass.

Brady Smith, a spokesman with Coconino National Forest, said visitors should check the regulations of the forest they plan to visit.

"Just recreate responsibly, and please don’t leave your trash behind, take whatever you have with you and bring enough trash bags to take all that stuff and do not leave it behind because we do not have trash services in the national forest."

Foresters are concerned that dry conditions may cause juniper trees to die, which will mean an abundance of fuel.