Wednesday, June 30, 2004 10:00 MST

The fire is now at 450 acres with more than 75% of indirect fire line constructed around its perimeter. The Incident Team expects to complete the indirect fire line construction today. Back burning operations will commence today so expect to see significant smoke as the fuels burn out along the cut line into the fire area.

8 helicopters, 11 Type 1 hot shot crews, 4 type 2 handcrews, 12 engines, 4 water tenders and 63 support personnel are assigned to the fire -- (369 firefighters on the ground).

Mt. Graham will remain closed to the public through the forth of July weekend. USFS will reopen the road as soon as conditions warrant and the fire no longer presents a safety hazard to the public.

John Ratje