New Fire Start on the Mt Taylor Ranger District
Rocky Side Fire
Reported start date / time: August 20, 2025 / 2300
Location: West of McGaffey. Smoke may be visible to the surrounding area of the Gallup.
Responding Resources: USFS & other agencies.
Size: 3.5 acres
Strategy: Full suppression.
Resources: As of the evening August 21, there are three engines, two water tenders, two hand crews, and one brush truck on scene with aerial resources conducting water drops.
Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Members of the public should avoid the Rocky Side Fire area.
Drones pose a serious risk to firefighting and can cause air operations to cease. The public is reminded that "If you fly, we can't!"
New Fire Start on the Mt Taylor Ranger District
Prairie Dog Fire
Reported start date / time: August 21, 2025 / 1600
Location: Southwest of Bluewater. Smoke may be visible to the surrounding area of Bluewater and Thoreau.
Responding Resources: USFS.
Size: 3 acres
Strategy: Full suppression.
Resources: As of the evening August 21, Mt. Taylor Hot Shots have been deployed to the fire. Aerial resources supporting.
Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Members of the public should avoid the Prairie Dog Fire area.
