WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The Navajo Nation and Apache County continue to strengthen a trusted partnership focused on emergency response, public safety, and direct community support across the Navajo Nation.
At the request of Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, Apache County mobilized county-funded emergency services to assist with seasonal firewood harvesting and delivery from the Wallow Fire burn scar, in coordination with the U.S. Forest Service. Crews cut, processed, split, and distributed firewood throughout the winter to families in need, working through local community representatives across Districts 1, 2, and 3. These loads of firewood serve as emergency reserves to complement the on going firewood delivery to Navajo Nation community members through hardworking and dedicated Community Reps.
This work is part of a larger partnership focused on helping communities when they need it most and making sure emergency services are ready to respond. Apache County Supervisors Nelson Davis, Joe Shirley Jr. and Alton Shepherd support a highly integrated emergency response team led by incident command staff, providing capabilities that complement Navajo Nation Emergency Management.
These resources include mobile command units equipped with Starlink connectivity, aerial drones for security pre-screening at public events, thermal imaging technology for search and rescue operations, and advanced coordination across law enforcement, fire, and emergency agencies throughout Arizona and neighboring states.
Apache County teams have also played key roles in recent emergencies, including flood response efforts in Chinle, missing persons operations, and public safety coordination at major community events.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to service—rooted in mutual respect, trust, and a steadfast dedication to protecting the safety and well-being of Navajo Nation communities.
