March 4, 2024

Two recent studies from The Coconino County Flood Control District show a significant wildfire and post-fire flood threat in the Upper Rio de Flag Watershed; with the potential for substantial economic impacts.

The Watershed spans 21,500 acres on the western side of the San Francisco Peaks, with steep slopes and drainages that feed into the river.A burn severity and post-wildfire flood analysis generated models for several different scenarios, and showed that almost 2,000 homes, over 400 businesses and other facilities in Flagstaff would be at risk.

That data was used to conduct an economic impact study, which showed that fire and flood response, remediation and recovery could result in an economic impact anywhere between half a billion and $2.8 billion.

The County continues to work with the Forest Service and other partners on forest restoration and other ways to address the threats; and the Board of Supervisors will discuss the matter at their Tuesday meeting.

Josh Freeman | KAZM News Director | josh@mellowmountainradio.com