Santa Fe Standard

Santa Fe, N.M.—Fire managers from the Española Ranger District are preparing for multiple prescribed fire projects tentatively planned for fall and winter. A final decision to proceed with a prescribed fire on the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) depends on agency administrator approval, resource availability, and favorable conditions including fuel moisture levels, air quality, and forecast weather. Prescribed fires prioritize firefighter and public safety.

An informational community meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 25 from 5:30 to 7:30 at the Santa Fe National Forest Supervisor’s Office located at 11 Forest Lane, Santa Fe, N.M. During the meeting, fire managers will discuss the following projects:

North Aztec Springs

The 647-acre broadcast burn aims to use prescribed fire within thinned areas to reduce the risk of catastrophic uncharacteristic wildfire and improve the condition and health of riparian areas and the watershed.

Borrego Campground 2

The 130-acre broadcast burn seeks to use prescribed fire within thinned areas to restore and maintain desired forest diversity and meet structure and old growth characteristics consistent with the Forest Plan.

Hyde Park North Ridge

The 52-acre pile burn aims to manage fuel loads reducing the risk of uncharacteristic wildfire in target areas.

Tesuque Initial Units

The 69-acre pile burn intends to manage fuel loads reducing the risk of uncharacteristic fire in target areas.

Smoke from these prescribed fire projects may be visible from Santa Fe and surrounding communities. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautions. To learn more about how the New Mexico Environment Department Smoke Management Program ensures prescribed fires are carried out safely visit Smoke Management Program (nm.gov). For information on the HEPA filter loan program, go to https://facnm.org/smoke#smokeanchor5.

For more information on these projects contact the Española District Office by phone at (505) 753-7331 or visit the office at 18537 US 84/285 Suite B Española, NM. To learn more about SFNF fire management visit the SFNF website, NM Fire Info, and SFNF social media (Facebook and X).

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