Glenwood, NM, January 22, 2020— The Gila National Forest, Glenwood Ranger District will be burning the Glenwood Slash Pile, weather and resources permitting. Implementation may occur as early as Monday, January 27. It is anticipated that this community slash pit could be ignited three to six times per year depending on fuel accumulations. Post ignition monitoring will occur until the area is completely extinguished, generally three to five days in duration.

The project location is:

Glenwood Slash Pile: Sheridan Ridge Road, Catron County Rd 54, approximately seven miles south of Glenwood.

Smoke may be visible in the area where the burn is being conducted and may linger at night and early morning, but normally decreases as daytime weather prevails. Although this is a one day planned event, smoke may be seen in the area for several days following the ignition. Prescribed Fire signs will be posted on US Hwy 180 in the vicinity of the burn where smoke will most likely be seen.  

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. The prescribed burns are designed to remove dead forest fuels, provide community protection and promote forest health. Prescribed fires are managed with firefighter and public safety as first priority. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health using the 5-3-1 visibility method can be found at the New Mexico Department of Health’s website https://nmtracking.org/fire or by calling 1-888-878-8992. Fire information can be found at nmfireinfo.com.

For further information on the Glenwood Slash Pile Prescribed Fire, please contact the Glenwood District office at 575.539.2481. For information on the Gila National Forest, check out our website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/gila o