Fire Managers for the Cibola National Forest are planning to execute several prescribed fires on the Sandia Ranger District this fall and winter.  Prescribed fires are planned ignitions conducted under specific conditions to restore fire dependent ecosystems.  These fires promote forest health in many ways such as reducing forest fuels, recycling nutrients, and increasing habitat diversity.  They are managed with firefighter and public safety as the first priority.  The following will be conducted as conditions allow:

Sulphur Prescribed Fire – The Sulphur project area is located on the Sandia Ranger District, approximately 1 mile west of Sandia Park. Prescribed fire pile burning will take place in portions of the Sulphur project area unit 4. Hand ignitions will be used to ignite isolated debris piles over a widespread area within a clearly defined perimeter.  Up to 92 acres will be treated to promote forest health and provide protection to nearby communities.

This fire has been planned in coordination with the New Mexico Department of Environmental Quality http://www.nmenv.state.nm.us/aqb/ and every effort will be made to minimize smoke impacts; however, smoke from prescribed fires is inevitable.  Smoke sensitive individuals are encouraged to take precautionary measures.  Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found on the New Mexico Department of Health website at https://nmtracking.org/fire

Prescribed fire project facts:

Ownership: Cibola National Forest, Sandia Ranger District

Legal Location: Township 11 North, Range 5 East, Sections 23 & 14

Duration: multiple days once ignition is commenced

Approximately 3-12 personnel from the US Forest Service, and other partner agencies will be onsite to conduct the prescribed fire operation.

Ignition operations will commence at approximately 0900 each morning and will cease no later than 1500 (3 PM) daily.

Fire engines, UTV’s, hand crew personnel, portable water tanks and pumps will be utilized as holding equipment.

Smoke conditions will be monitored for impact to Hwy 536.

Personnel will monitor and patrol the prescribed fire perimeter, roads, and trails after ignition has ceased until all hazards are mitigated.

Recreation trails will be closed during the prescribed fire