Peggy Fire Update, July 25, 2017

Jemez Ranger District, Santa Fe National Forest

Start Date: July 18, 2017

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

Size: 462 acres

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

Vegetation: Ponderosa, piñon, juniper and oak scrub brush

Current Situation: Operations continue to go well on the Peggy Fire as fire crews take advantage of opportunities to continue burning on the south flank and building depth in the interior. Spot fires are holding and cooling down as the low-intensity flames burn through fuels on the ground.  The Peggy Fire is moving into piñon and juniper, and fire managers are considering taking it toward Forest Road 376 to meet resource objectives in the piñon/juniper stand which has seen a fair amount of insect mortality.  As the low-intensity fire spreads, fire crews are taking steps to protect archaeological and cultural sites within the planning area.  Managing the lightning-caused Peggy Fire is expected to have a positive impact on forest health and habitat diversity while reducing the risk of future catastrophic wildfire.

Weather: The moist atmosphere over New Mexico is bringing scattered to numerous thunderstorms over the state.  Storms are generally drifting to the northeast at 10 to 15 mph, producing some locally heavy downpours.  A slight reduction in storms is expected in western New Mexico on Wednesday, but a weak backdoor front will shift the focus for storms to the northeastern part of the state.  Temperatures may cool a few degrees.

Smoke/Air Quality: Smoke is visible and may affect Gilman and Jemez Pueblo. Smoke-sensitive individuals and those with respiratory or heart disease should take precautionary measures.  Air quality information and health protection measures are posted 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.

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