SFNF News:SANTA FE ― Due to unfavorable moisture levels and weather conditions, fire managers at the Coyote Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) placed the French Mesa prescribed burn on hold.
Additionally, forest service personnel would like the public to report any suspicious activity in the Mesa Poleo area where there were two arson fires this year, and in any other areas within the Coyote Ranger District on the Santa Fe National Forest by calling the Coyote Ranger District office at the phone number located at the bottom of the news release.
Should monsoons arrive in July as predicted and provide enough moisture, up to 1,000 acres of hazardous fuels could be treated per day if conditions allow. The purpose is to reduce the risk of high-severity wildfire. The total prescribed burn area is 3,580 acres.
SFNF officials remind the public that the entire SFNF is currently under Stage I fire restrictions, but the public can still enjoy the forest. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, SFNF officials urge everyone to practice good fire prevention.
Several criteria are used to determine when to implement fire restrictions, including fire activity levels, current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, and the availability of firefighting resources. Fire restriction criteria is routinely evaluated and restrictions could be upgraded or downgraded at any time. Therefore, forest visitors should check with the local district office in the area they plan to visit to know what level of fire restrictions are in effect.
Know before you go. Fire restrictions in New Mexico can be found at https://firerestrictions.us/nm/ and fire updates are posted on the New Mexico Fire Information website at www.nmfireinfo.com.
For additional information about the French Mesa prescribed burn, contact the Coyote Ranger District at (575).638.5526.
