Mountainair Ranger District Plans Prescribed Burn

Mountainair Ranger District Plans Prescribed Burn

Mountainair, NM – February 5, 2013. The Cibola National Forest and Grasslands’ Mountainair Ranger District is planning a prescribed burn in the Manzano Mountains, near the community of Manzano. The 253 Deck Prescribed Burn will encompass approximately 250 acres located on both the south and north sides of Forest Road 253.

The goal of this project is to improve watershed and wildlife biodiversity, and to help protect private property in the event of a wildfire. This ecosystem depends on fire to promote new vegetation, enhance habitat and reduce the threat of large fire. It improves public and firefighter safety by reducing the accumulated fuels that could otherwise contribute to more intense fire behavior under hotter/drier conditions.

Mountainair Ranger District fire staff have been closely monitoring fuel moisture conditions and weather patterns. If conditions remain favorable, the prescribed burn will occur as early as next week. Fire management crews will monitor the burn for as long as necessary.

During the prescribed burn, NFS roads will remain closed to the public due to winter closures. In addition, temporary road signs warning about smoke and activity on the roads will be posted on State Highways 131 and 55. Some light smoke may be observed in the area. Additional fire vehicles will be in the area patrolling and monitoring the roads. Please drive carefully when on these roads, as visibility might be lowered due to smoke.

If you have questions regarding the planned prescribed burn or any other Mountainair Ranger District questions, please call 505.847.2990 or e-mail Adrian Padilla at adrianpadilla@fs.fed.us or Arlene Perea at atperea@fs.fed.us.