TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, N.M. – A fire was detected on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2014, approximately five miles east of Beaverhead Work Center and south of State Highway 59.

The Cienega Fire, a lightning-caused fire, is being managed by district personnel using a confinement strategy with resource benefits. When the conditions are right, resource fires are one way to help restore ecological balance across the landscape so the area becomes more resilient to threats.

Currently, the fire size is approximately 27 ½ acres and fire behavior is low with creeping and smoldering observed in pine litter, grass and downed logs. Fire behavior will be determined by weather, topography and other factors. If drying occurs, fire behavior could increase.

Smoke from the Cienega Fire may also increase, potentially impacting visibility on State Highway 59. Please use caution when traveling through this area.

For more information please contact the Black Range Ranger District at (575) 894-6677.