Introduction of low-severity fire removes ladder fuels to reduce risk of high-severity fire

SILVER CITY, NM, April 10, 2023 – The Silver City Ranger is planning to continue ignitions on the Pinos Altos Prescribed Fire project that began last week. Tomorrow, one day of ignition is planned on 12 acres of National Forest System lands in the Bear Creek drainage north of Pinos Altos, New Mexico.

The project area is adjacent to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and trail guards will monitor trail traffic, allowing hikers through when conditions are safe. The trail remains open; however, visitors can expect short delays to accommodate firing activities. The Bear Creek Road will be temporarily closed at the forest boundary and the Continental Divide Trail parking area on Bear Creek Road will also be closed to allow firefighters access and to protect public safety.

“Fuel conditions are conducive to meeting fire-use objectives and fire managers will continue to monitor weather closely to ensure it meets the parameters of the burn plan,” said Silver City District Ranger Elizabeth Toney.

“These small burn units help to protect the community of Pinos Altosby eliminating ladder fuels and undergrowth that could lead to high severity or crown fires in the Bear Creek area. The introduction of low-intensity fire to ponderosa stands builds upon ongoing work by our partners with the State of New Mexico and the bureau of Land Management.”

Due to the project location, smoke impacts may be expected by residents in Bear Creek drainage, in Pinos Altos, and along Highway 15, but these impacts should be minimal and limited to one to two days in duration. Information about smoke impacts and recommendations for avoiding health impacts is available at NM Fire Info | Smoke Management. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211 or Maribeth.Pecotte@usda.gov.