Cibola NF & National Grasslands’ – North Fire Acreage Remains at 42,102 Acres

Magdalena, NM; June 29, 2016 – The North Fire on the Magdalena Ranger District remains at 42,102 acres; at 69% containment. The lightning-caused fire started on May 21^st and is located in the San Mateo Mountains, 25 miles southwest of Magdalena, NM. The North Fire continues to be actively managed for multiple resource benefits.

Yesterday crews continued culvert refurbishment to clear debris from the existing CCC culvert system along FR 549 to Monica Saddle. The North Fire perimeter was patrolled and monitored to protect private property in the fire area. Water pipe line and fencing were repaired along the east side of the fire perimeter. Scouting and prepping road systems north along FR 330 east of the fire perimeter continued yesterday.  Road grading of FR 549 to improve road conditions and access south from US Highway 60 began yesterday.  Today crews will mop up and patrol previously burned area in Monica Saddle keeping the fire within existing perimeter to protect private property north and east of the fire.  Rehabilitation work will be accessed in the fire affected areas to enhance partnerships with public and private stakeholders.  FR 138 will be patrolled and monitor to prevent further growth. Supplies used on the fire line will be removed.  Fire behavior and effects are being assessed to ensure they meet the incident objectives.  Point protection is being provided to maintain private and infrastructure values.  There are currently 77 personnel assigned to the incident.

The weather forecast Wednesday calls for a continuation of afternoon and evening thunderstorms. Visit the New Mexico Department of Health visibility test to determine smoke impacts in your area at: https://nmtracking.org/fire. The smoke monitoring website is:  http://app.airsis.com/USFS/fleet.aspx. Minimal smoke will be visible from US Highway 60 west of Magdalena, NM.

A temporary Area Closure Order has been issued for the vicinity of the North Fire. All National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the closure area are closed to public use. Due to the severe fire danger, and to protect public health and safety, Stage I fire restrictions have been implemented on the Magdalena Ranger District of Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands.

For more information, please contact the Magdalena Ranger District at 575-854-2281, or visit the New Mexico Fire Information website at www.nmfireinfo.com , Twitter:@Cibola_NF, www.facebook.com/cibolanf, and http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/.