EMNRD-FORESTRY DIVISION

For the Santa Fe National Forest

Commissary Fire Update of June 30, 2015, 12:00 P.M.

Start Date: June 5, 2015 Percent Contained: 0%
Size: 1,531 acres Growth Potential: Low
Vegetation: Ponderosa pine, aspen, mixed conifer, grass and brush

Summary: Crews on the lightning-caused Commissary Fire on the Pecos/Las Vegas Ranger District, will continue chipping and piling operations around the perimeter of the fire today. On the western border, chipping along Forest Road 66 will connect with Forest Road 83. Another chipping crew is working its way north on the eastern side of Forest Road 83.

The Commissary Fire is located 13 miles east of Pecos, NM, and two miles south of Barillas Peak. Fire managers have been managing the fire for resource objectives, including improving wildlife and range habitat, encouraging regeneration of aspen, and improving watershed and overall forest health.

Higher-than-normal levels of moisture and precipitation for this time of year have kept the fire in check. A 10 to 30 percent chance of precipitation predicted for today will allow some drying; however, the chance of precipitation will increase tomorrow as the monsoon rains appear to be approaching.

Although the fire is producing minimal smoke, people with respiratory problems and smoke-sensitive individuals are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found online at the New Mexico Environment Department's website at https://nmtracking.org/fire.

Public recreational areas on the Pecos/Las Vegas Ranger District are not affected by the Commissary Fire and are open. Although there are no fire restrictions in place, visitors are reminded that fireworks are always prohibited on national forest lands.

Road Advisories: Public traffic is highly discouraged on Forest Roads 83 and 66 due to heavy firefighter traffic and narrow road conditions. Caution is also advised while driving from lower Colonias north on Forest Road 83.