EMNRD-FORESTRY DIVISION for the

U.S. Forest Service
Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands
Magdalena Ranger District
Magdalena, New Mexico

Red Canyon Fire Remains at 17, 349 Acres

Magdalena, NM; July 5, 2015 - For Immediate Release. The Red Canyon fire on the Magdalena Ranger District remains at 17,349 acres. The lightning-caused fire is located in the San Mateo Mountains, 2 miles southeast of Grassy Lookout and 27 miles southwest of Magdalena, NM.

Yesterday afternoon the Red Canyon Fire received additional moisture over a large portion of the fire perimeter. Fire crews completed hazard tree falling for FR138 and FR330. Resource Specialists are gathering information on heritage sites in the current management area and assessing fire protection needs. Red Canyon IC stated: "Even with less smoke, firefighters on the ground will continue implementing the necessary preparations should the fire become more active in the coming days."

The fire continues to burn in ponderosa pine and mixed-conifer fuels. The Red Canyon fire is enhancing wildlife habitat, while protecting cultural resources, reducing hazardous fuels and returning fire to the ecosystem. There are 43 fire personnel assigned to the fire, one Hot Shot crew, one Wildland Fire Module, one helicopter, and support personnel.

The forecast is for the monsoonal flow of wetting precipitation to remain through next week. Smoke from the Red Canyon is minimal from US Hwy 60 west of Magdalena, NM, Datil, NM and Pie Town, NM and along I-25 south of Socorro, New Mexico due to the precipitation received on the fire line. When driving on Forest Roads during approaching storms, please drive carefully, reduce your speed and drive with your light on. Also, when hiking trails, stay away from ridge tops and seek lower elevations until thunderstorms pass.

The following Forest Roads (FR) are closed until further notice: FR 96; FR 138; FR 478A; FR 478B; FR 330; FR 331; FR 378, and FR 478. The following trails are closed: Trails 28, 31, 43, and 63. All the listed Forest Roads and trails are within the working boundaries of the Red Canyon fire perimeter.