Around The Cracker Barrel - Wildfire Danger in Southern Arizona: Is Your Home Prepared? With Kyle Trujillo (Aired 10/16/2026)

Wildfires are a growing concern across Southern Arizona, but what makes our region especially vulnerable, and what can homeowners do to reduce the risks? This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley welcomes Kyle Trujillo, Wildfire Mitigation Coordinator with the University of Arizona's Pima County Cooperative Extension, for an informative conversation about wildfire prevention, environmental challenges, and community preparedness. Kyle explains why Pima County ranks among the nation's higher-risk counties for wildfires and how expanding development near natural desert areas, prolonged drought conditions, and invasive plants such as buffelgrass, red brome, and stinknet contribute to the danger. The discussion also explores the lasting environmental damage caused by wildfires, including flooding and erosion, and ongoing restoration efforts on Mount Graham. Guy and Kyle discuss the importance of community involvement, volunteer efforts to remove invasive vegetation, and practical steps homeowners can take to protect their properties. From clearing debris out of gutters to understanding the dangers of windblown embers and preparing evacuation plans, Kyle shares valuable information that could make a difference when wildfire threatens a neighborhood. Listeners will also learn about the Pima County Wildfire Mitigation Program and resources available to help homeowners and communities become better prepared. Find out more of the Wildfire Mitigation Plan from Pima County