Controlled burn Friday targets Sweetwater mosquitos
Tucson Water and the city's Fire Department will hold a controlled burn of the Sweetwater Wetlands on Friday morning. In years past, residents have inundated 911 with calls reporting smoke in the area. This year, TFD Capt. Barrett Baker is urging people to remain calm.
Areas of the wetlands, south of Roger Road near Interstate 10, will be burned from about 8:30 a.m.-noon, Baker said, as firefighters and Tucson Water’s Mosquito Abatement Program clear dried grass as part of an annual project.
The burn is meant to help control mosquitoes around the water treatment plant, 2667 W. Sweetwater Drive.
The city has battled mosquitoes at Sweetwater for years.
The wetlands will be closed to the public while the burn takes place. The controlled blaze will help remove dead plants to spur spring growth.
