The Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands’ Mountainair Ranger District (NF & NGs) strategy to burn an area near the Upper Red Canyon Campground in the Manzano Mountains has been postponed due to unfavorable conditions.
As explained by the New Mexico Fire Information website, the area, around 12 miles northwest of Mountainair, was initially scheduled to be burned from Jan. 21 to Jan. 23 to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health.
Fire managers assessed the 48-acre area and determined the time was unsuitable for their plan to eliminate debris piles.
Although winter conditions are ideal for these jobs due to snow’s role in reducing fire spread, unfavorable conditions such as fuel moisture, air quality and weather forecasts were the main factors suspending the ignition temporarily.
“Ignition start will depend upon agency administrator approval and conditions within the ranges outlined in burn plan,” the Forest Service said in a press release on Jan. 16.
When the operation resumes and the burn occurs, residents from nearby areas such as Mountainair, Punta de Agua, Manzano and Estancia Valley may easily detect smoke.
Despite this, the process produces less smoke than larger-scale ignitions, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community and the adjacent vegetation.
This effort is part of the Hazardous Tree Management project, which plans to reduce public safety hazards.
Announcements and updates on future fire projects will be available through InciWeb, New Mexico Fire Information, Cibola National Forest’s website, Facebook and X.
You can request more information at the Mountainair District Office at 505-847-2990 or the Cibola National Forest Supervisor’s Office at 505-346-3900.
Air quality and health protection resources can be found at www.airnow.gov.