SILVER CITY, NM; May 20, 2016 - For Immediate Release - The Signal Peak fire lookout reported a new fire this afternoon approximately 14 miles northeast of Silver City on the Silver City Ranger District. It is called the Group Fire (so named because it is close to the Sapillo Group Campground) and is estimated at six acres.

Gila National Forest officials have determined this fire will be managed under a full suppression strategy.

The decision was made after the evaluation of its location in proximity to private property, structures and recreation areas along the Highway 35 corridor, the point at which we are in the fire season (with many weeks to come before monsoons arrive), and the weather prediction for the next few days calling for southwest winds up to 20 miles per hour.

Resources committed to the incident include the Silver City Hotshots, one engine, and a crew. A helicopter is also available to assist as necessary. More information will be provided as it becomes available.