GLENWOOD, N.M. — A lightning strike from recent thunderstorms is the cause of the Tige Fire in Catron County near the New Mexico and Arizona state line.

The 63 acre fire is burning in ponderosa pine forest on the northwest rim of Bear Canyon, near Devil's Monument. Current fire behavior is low to moderate, producing light smoke mainly during afternoon hours.

The nearby Sycamore Fire on the Apache National Forest in Arizona is also contributing to smoke moving down the San Francisco watershed and is visible to the communities of Alma, Glenwood and Pleasanton. In addition, motorists traveling along New Mexico Highway 180 are cautioned to drive slowly with lights on while traveling in smoky areas.

"We plan to manage this naturally occurring fire to meet resource objectives in the Blue Range Wilderness," said District Ranger Debbie Cress. "Reducing fuel loads in this area during the wetter conditions we're experiencing right now benefits mixed conifer forests in the area. These areas provide critical habitat for the Mexican spotted owl and other wildlife and plants."

Recent rainfall in the area will help firefighters manage the fire to minimize impacts to the Tucson Electric powerline located approximately five miles east of the fire.

Please contact the Glenwood Ranger District office for further information at (575) 539-2481.