Glenwood, NM, February 16, 2018—For Immediate Release. The Glenwood Ranger District, Gila National Forest is planning to burn the Sheridan Slash Pile in the next two weeks dependent on weather conditions. This slash pile is located on the Sheridan Ridge Road (County Road CO54) approximately seven miles south of Glenwood. This burn will take one day, but smoke may be visible for up to two weeks from the areas of Gila, Cliff, Mule Creek, Alma and Glenwood.

Fire managers consider forecasted weather, fuel moistures and other conditions to determine optimal windows to conduct controlled burns.

Prescribed fires are one of the most effective tools available to resource managers for restoring fire-adapted ecosystems. These fires mimic natural fires by reducing forest fuels, recycling nutrients and increasing habitat diversity. Prescribed burns are designed to meet specific objectives, including providing community protection and promoting forest health. Prescribed burns are always managed with firefighter and public safety as the first priority.

By adding the right fire to the landscape at the right place at the right time, controlled burns mitigate the risk of high-intensity wildfire, reduce the spread of insects and disease, improve habitat for wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, and promote the growth of healthy trees, wildflowers and other plants.

Smoke from the prescribed burn will be monitored to ensure that the New Mexico Environment Department’s Air Quality Bureau regulations are being met. Smoke-sensitive individuals and those with respiratory or heart disease should take precautionary measures.