Courtesy/VCNP

VCNP News:

JEMEZ SPRINGS – The Cerro Pelado Fire started just south of Valles Caldera National Preserve. With the dangerous fire weather event ongoing across the area and forest conditions being extremely dry, Valles Caldera National Preserve will be closed until further notice.

Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found online at the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) Environmental Public Health Tracking (EPHT) website at https://nmtracking.org/fire. An interactive smoke map at https://fire.airnow.gov/ allows viewers to zoom into their area to see the latest smoke conditions.

About the Valles Caldera National Preserve:

About 1.25 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created the 13-mile wide circular depression now known as Valles Caldera. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and embraces a rich ranching history. Visit nps.gov/vall.

About the National Park Service:

More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 420+ national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit nps.gov.