Work continues fire mitigation debris clearing along New Mexico Highway 59
(Truth or Consequences, N.M., February 7, 2026) — The Gila National Forest intends to implement prescribed fire operations on the Black Range Ranger Districts on Feb. 9 and 10, pending weather conditions and all required approvals. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.
Prescribed fires planned for the area include:
Black Range: Slash piles west of Poverty Creek along New Mexico Highway 59 (NM 59) between mile markers 10-14, approximately 10 miles northwest of Winston, NM.
Smoke will likely impact visibility along NM 59 and portions of the Continental Divide Trail in the area.
Watch for warning signs, fire vehicles, and firefighters along roadways near all prescribed fire areas before and during burns. Slow down and turn on your headlights if you encounter smoke on the road. Smoke may settle into valley areas, especially during overnight and early morning hours. For more detailed information about air quality, visit AirNow online or download the app.
We will evaluate weather conditions in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities may be canceled.
The public can stay informed on scheduled prescribed fires through the forest website and social media. We will notify county emergency management officials when burning begins.
