Peggy Fire Update July 22, 2017

Start Date: July 18, 2017

Cause: Lightning struck a single standing dead tree (snag). The fire subsequently spread into surrounding dead and down timber and brush.

Size: 147 acres

Location: Peggy Mesa, approximately 2 miles northwest of the Gilman Tunnels on the Jemez Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest

Vegetation: Piñon pines, juniper, ponderosa pine and oak scrub brush

Current Situation: The fire is burning at low intensity with pockets of moderate intensity and tends to be more active earlier in the day. This morning the Peggy Fire was actively backing and flanking with some intermittent tree torching.  The southern and western flanks are holding on a two-track road, and the Deer Creek drainage is holding the northern flank.  The Peggy Fire is burning through thick vegetation and tree litter within its perimeter, which will help mitigate the risk of high-intensity wildfire in the future.  Fire crews are monitoring the Peggy Fire to keep it from spotting over the containment lines.

Weather: Seasonal monsoonal weather patterns continue with scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms. A 50% chance of rain is forecast starting tomorrow and continuing into mid-week.  The forecasted moisture is expected to decrease fire activity on the Peggy Fire.

Smoke/Air Quality: Smoke has increased, with impacts expected in Gilman and Jemez Pueblo. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory or heart disease are reminded to take precautionary measures.  Air quality information and health protection measures are available online at the New Mexico Department of Health’s website:  https://nmtracking.org/fire.

Fire Information:  Fire updates are posted on the New Mexico Fire Information website at nmfireinfo.com and on @SantaFeNF and www.facebook.com/SantaFeNF. Additional information can be obtained from the Jemez Ranger District at 575-829-3535.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.