Reserve, NM; October 25, 2011 The Reserve Ranger District of the Gila National Forest is planning on treating approximately 5,000 acres on the Eckleberger project using prescribed fire.  The prescribed fire is expected to last approximately two weeks beginning in November 2011.  Depending on weather and fuel conditions, the dates are subject to change.

The Eckleberger prescribed fire project is located approximately 15 miles southeast of Reserve and north of Forest Road 141 adjacent to the South Fork Campground, west of the Rainy Mesa Ranch Road 503, east of Telephone Canyon, and south of the North Fork of  Negrito Creek.    

The goal of this project is to remove hazardous fuels (needle cast, downed branches, logs)  to protect private property, improve wildlife habitat, protect sensitive resources such as threatened and endangered species habitat, reintroduce fire, and protect and improve soil and watershed resources from high intensity fire events. 

When driving in the project area, please exercise caution as fire personnel will be working near or on Forest Road 141 and Forest Road 503.  Drive with headlights on and reduce speed as the presence of smoke may reduce visibility along area roads.

For further information on the Eckleberger prescribed fire, please contact Reserve Ranger District at (575) 533-6232.

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