Agencies and Utilities Engage in Critical Dialogue Over Sedona Wildfire Challenges

The Sedona Fire District recently organized a vital community wildfire meeting at the Sedona Performing Arts Center, gathering municipal, county, and U.S. Forest Service representatives on April 2. Their discussions revolved around the increasing wildfire risks facing the region.

Travis Mabery, the U.S. Forest Service District Fire Management Officer, warned of elevated fire dangers, particularly in May and June, as dry and warm conditions persist. He emphasized that the 2025 wildfire season could be especially active due to these ongoing conditions.

The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management echoed these concerns, highlighting that this year’s warm, dry climate, combined with drought-stricken fuel, poses a significant threat for extensive fire activity. Analysts predict that a windier spring spell could further exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to larger and longer-lasting fires.

During the meeting, SFD Assistant Fire Chief Jayson Coil polled attendees about their experiences with insurance cancellations due to wildfire risks. Notably, Arizona saw a 48% surge in homeowner insurance premiums from 2021 to 2024, ranking as the third-largest increase nationwide, as reported by the Consumer Federation of America.

Coil stressed the need for more precise risk assessments. He criticized current insurance practices, which rely on aggregated data, stating, “We need to push risk visibility down to the parcel level.” He mentioned ongoing initiatives aimed at improving awareness and understanding of wildfire risks within communities.

Mabery revealed plans to initiate a National Environmental Policy Act process this summer for a new fire management plan. This strategy aims to establish fire breaks around Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek, part of the Sedona-Big Park Community Protection Plan.

Alex Schlueter, District Ranger for the Red Rock Ranger District, clarified the feasibility of extensive fire prevention measures, noting, “A ring around the city may not be practical.”

Addressing concerns regarding staffing, Mabery assured the community that the U.S. Forest Service would be fully staffed this summer, despite discussions about federal funding cuts. He also mentioned an upcoming announcement about extending areas for the collection of dead and downed firewood, aimed at reducing wildfire risk.

Residents voiced frustration towards Arizona Public Service (APS) and the U.S. Forest Service for their absence at a crucial Feb. 19 meeting regarding APS’s proposed above-ground transmission line. Schlueter commented that analyses indicated only a minimal increase to wildfire risk from the project.

In addition, Sedona Police Chief Stephanie Foley urged the community to enroll in emergency evacuation notifications. Meanwhile, Arizona Water Company Division Manager John Snickers updated attendees on the new $20 million, 1.5-million-gallon storage tank nearing completion at the intersection of State Route 179 and West Mallard Drive.