Prescribed Burn Planned for Centennial Bombing Range

Prescribed Burn Planned for Centennial Bombing Range

Las Cruces, NM – On April 27, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is planning a prescribed burn in the Centennial Bombing Range on the McGregor Range, weather permitting.  Centennial is approximately 20 miles northeast of Oro Grande, New Mexico, in Otero County.  An anticipated 500 acres of grassland will be targeted for hand ignition.  Smoke from the burn will be visible from Highway 54, and may remain for a couple of days, depending on weather conditions.

In total, 15-20 BLM firefighters and personnel will monitor the burn.  Most of the rapid-burning fuels will be consumed during the initial burning period.  In addition, two BLM fire engines will remain on site until the burn is completely extinguished.

Prescribed burning is one of the most effective tools to control vegetation in areas where wildfires are no longer appropriate. By reducing the volume of vegetation, under the specific prescribed conditions, land managers mimic the natural fire cycle.  Prescribed burns greatly reduce the dangers and risks associated with unplanned wildfires.

For additional information about this planned burn, please contact BLM Fuels Specialist Ricky Cox at 575-525-4467 or BLM Fire Management Officer Mark Bernal at 575-525-4305.