Carson National Forest – Taos Ski Valley Prescribed Pile Burn

Taos, NM, September 21, 2016—For Immediate Release.  The Questa Ranger District of the Carson National Forest will begin implementing prescribed burning of piles September 26 through October 31 on days when conditions permit.  These pile burns are contingent on wind, relative humidity, temperature, expected weather pattern and available resources.

The piles are located on four separate units in Taos Ski Valley for a total of 46 acres. The first unit, located at the end of the Deer parking area, will consist of one acre.  The second unit is located on Ernie’s and North American ski runs and is approximately 25 acres in size.  The third unit, located in the Wild West Glade area will consist of 15 acres and the fourth unit near Spencer’s run is approximately 5 acres in size.

The purpose of these burns is to reduce residual fuel accumulation from thinning activities.

Prescribed fires are one of the most effective tools available to resource managers for restoring fire-adapted ecosystems. These fires mimic natural fires by reducing forest fuels, recycling nutrients and increasing habitat diversity. Each prescribed burn is designed to meet specific objectives. The purpose of these burns is to reduce residual fuel accumulation from thinning activities.

Prescribed fires are managed with firefighter and public safety as the first priority.

Smoke from the prescribed burns will be monitored, and the information will be made available to provide health advisories as necessary. Smoke will be visible in Taos Ski Valley, Valdez and Arroyo Seco.

Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found, at the New Mexico Department of Health website at https://nmtracking.org/fire.

For additional information about these prescribed burns, please contact the Questa Ranger District at 575-586-0520. For text messages on the progress of the fire text ‘follow CarsonNF’ to 40404.