MIMBRES, NM; June 10, 2016 - For Immediate Release - An estimate from today's flight over the Turkey Fire in the Gila Wilderness shows the fire at approximately 1,682 acres. The fire is lightning-caused and about eight miles southwest of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.

Today, two crews will improve Trail #151 from Woody's Corral to the junction of Trail #403 and east to the Gila River to prevent fire spread from Highway 15 and the Gila Hot Springs area. Chainsaws are authorized in the Gila Wilderness as needed for firefighter safety and to maximize efficiency of operations. Packers are providing support for the crews in the wilderness.

Officials describe fire activity as smoldering, no active flames and little smoke after a significant amount of rain fell on the area Thursday night. The forecast shows cooler temperatures for this weekend.

The Turkey Fire is burning in the 2006 Miller Fire scar and is within the management area that officials have defined for the McKenna Fire. The objectives for this incident include removing hazardous fuels, reducing the severity of future wildfires and improving forest health.