Prescribed fire area now open for public entry

SILVER CITY, NM, April 23, 2024 – The Gila National Forest, Silver City Ranger District is lifting the area closure that was implemented for the protection of public safety during the Cameron Creek Prescribed Fire on Monday, April 15.

“The area closure allowed crews to focus on their own safety and conduct a safe, efficient burn,” said Silver City District Ranger Elizabeth Toney. “While the prescribed fire itself is no longer a threat, the public should exercise caution when entering into any recently burned area, because they contain hazards such as falling trees, rolling debris, and stump holes.” Fire-weakened trees may appear to be solid, but can be prone to toppling or uprooting, especially during windy conditions. Rocks and logs on slopes are easily dislodged and may roll downhill. Stump holes can be hidden by ash, can be several feet deep, and may hold hot ash and coals for multiple days after a fire. 

The Silver City Ranger District completed Phase 1 of the Cameron Creek prescribed fire last week. In phase 1, crews burned along the perimeter of the unit, to reduce fuels along planned holding features, firming them up to be used during interior ignitions in the next couple of months. Another area closure can be expected during implementation of Phase 2. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211 or Maribeth.Pecotte@usda.gov .