Gila National Forest, Silver City Ranger District continues PinosAltos prescribed burn
Introduction of low-intensity fire removes ladder fuels to reduce risk of high-severity fire
SILVER CITY, NM, April 10, 2023 – The Silver City Ranger is planning to continue ignitions on
the Pinos Altos Prescribed Fire project that began last week. Tomorrow, one day of ignition is planned on
12 acres of National Forest System lands in the Bear Creek drainage north of Pinos Altos, New Mexico.
The project area is adjacent to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and trail guards will monitor
trail traffic, allowing hikers through when conditions are safe. The trail remains open; however, visitors
can expect short delays to accommodate firing activities. The Bear Creek Road will be temporarily closed
at the forest boundary and the Continental Divide Trail parking area on Bear Creek Road will also be
closed to allow firefighters access and to protect public safety.
“Fuel conditions are conducive to meeting fire-use objectives and fire managers will continue to monitor
weather closely to ensure it meets the parameters of the burn plan,” said Silver City District Ranger
Elizabeth Toney. “These small burn units help to protect the community of Pinos Altos by eliminating
ladder fuels and undergrowth that could lead to high severity or crown fires in the Bear Creek area. The
introduction of low-intensity fire to ponderosa stands builds upon ongoing work by our partners with the
State of New Mexico and the bureau of Land Management.”
Due to the project location, smoke impacts may be expected by residents in Bear Creek drainage, in Pinos
Altos, and along Highway 15, but these impacts should be minimal and limited to one to two days in
duration. Information about smoke impacts and recommendations for avoiding health impacts is available
at NM Fire Info | Smoke Management. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211
or [email protected].
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