SILVER CITY, NM; June 21, 2015 - Hazy skies are clearing after smoke from wildfires across the region settled in local communities around the Gila National Forest overnight.

Several lightning-caused wildfires are being managed to achieve resource objectives on the Gila National Forest: Pinon Fire on the Reserve Ranger District (1,600 acres), Moore Fire on the Wilderness Ranger District (950 acres), and the Middle Fire on the Wilderness Ranger District (50 acres). The three fires are being used to remove hazardous fuels and reduce the risk of severe wildfire occurrence. Another fire on the Wilderness Ranger District (Woodrow, 100 acres) is being suppressed.

Fire managers are coordinating with the New Mexico Environment Department Air Quality Bureau to monitor smoke impacts during the management of these incidents.

Smoke production may increase at times and settle in communities during the management of these fires as the accumulation of forest debris and dead and down fuel is burned. Smoke from a large fire in Arizona may also contribute to the overall accumulation of smoke over our communities. Visibility is an easy way to decide if it's okay to go outside. Using visibility and staying indoors when it is smoky outside is a way to protect your health.

The New Mexico Department of Health explains how to use a visibility test to determine smoke impacts in your area on their website at:
https://nmtracking.org/en/environ_exposure/fire-and-smoke/#xEPHT__fivemile__1329