Silver City, NM; October 31, 2012-Gila National Forest fire personnel conducting the Farm Flats Prescribed Fire are accomplishing objectives of removing dead and down woody material such as trees, branches, pine needles, etc. under the  optimal fall burning conditions, thus restoring a natural process and structure creating a more resilient forest ecosystem.
 
“We expect the prescribed fire to be completed within the next few days as firing operations are going as planned. Prescribed fires, such as the Farm Flat, are important for reducing the potential for large, fast moving wildfires occurring during the summer seasons,” said Russell Ward, Silver City District Ranger.
 
Smoke from the prescribed fire will continue to be highly visible in the Grant County area for the next couple of days and is expected to diminish upon completion of the burn. As smoke will be present along NM State Highway 15, NM 35, and other roadways in the fire area, road travelers are advised to use caution and reduce speeds.
 
Fire personnel will monitor the area throughout the weekend.
 
Further information may be obtained by contacting District Ranger Russell Ward, 575.388.8201.