RICHFIELD, Utah (ABC4) —The U.S. Forest Service has launched a post-fire restoration effort in the Monroe Canyon Fire area, which includes aerial seeding of nearly 27,000 acres.
The Monroe Canyon Fire broke out just south of Richfield in Sevier County in July 2025. According to the U.S. Forest Service, it burned approximately 73,721 acres. Due to high temperatures and gusty winds, the fire was not 100% contained until September 5, 2025.
Flying embers from the fire created spot fires across established dozer lines in Manning, Monroe Meadows, Dry Creek, Monroe Canyon and Water Canyon. Fortunately, crews were able to quickly catch them and extinguish the flames before they could become bigger problems.
40 wildfire-monitoring cameras to be installed in remote Utah areas, officials say
Monroe canyon Fire. Courtesy: Utah Fire Info
Monroe canyon Fire. Courtesy: Lone Peak Fire District
Less than a year after the fire, Fishlake National Forest, in partnership with Utah’s Department of Natural Resources and the Watershed Restoration Initiative, has launched a post-fire restoration effort.
Over the next few weeks, residents can expect to see a low-flying plane in the Monroe Canyon Fire area as a contractor begins aerial seeding across nearly 27,000 acres. Using 26 bags of low-elevation seeds and 121 bags of high-elevation seed, this effort will help stabilize soils, reduce erosion, and promote the return of healthy native vegetation.
Courtesy: U.S. Forest Service, Fishlake National Forest
“This seeding effort is a critical step in helping wildlife habitat recover, reducing the spread of invasive plants, and supporting the long-term health of the Fishlake. It also helps protect downstream communities from runoff and erosion,” shared the U.S. Forest Service.
The aircraft can carry 1.5 bags per load, and each bag weighs 1,750 lbs. Residents are asked to support crews as they take the necessary time to complete the project.
Derick Fox contributed to this report.
Latest headlines:
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
