Peggy Fire Update July 28, 2017

Jemez Ranger District, Santa Fe National Forest

Start Date: July 18, 2017

Cause: Lightning

Size: 728 acres

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

Vegetation: Ponderosa pine, piñon, juniper and oak scrub brush

Current Situation: Yesterday morning’s higher humidities followed by afternoon thunderstorms slowed the growth of the Peggy Fire. Interior fuels continued to burn before the threat of lightning pulled fire personnel off the fire.  Although the fire received a fair amount of monsoonal moisture yesterday, crews were able to continue blacklining today and hope to complete the 886-acre planning area.

The Peggy Fire is consuming hazardous fuels and creating a good mosaic burn pattern on the mesa. By removing oak and mountain mahogany, the fire is opening up the tree canopy for healthy herbaceous growth.  Improved forest health, increased habitat diversity, and a reduced risk of future catastrophic wildfires are expected outcomes of managing this fire for resource benefit.

Weather: The forecast continues to call for heavy rainfall and scattered thunderstorms with localized impacts across the northwest third to half of the state this afternoon and evening. Some isolated flash flooding is possible.  Heavy rains with localized flash flooding will increase later Sunday across the northeast half of New Mexico, then trend westward early next week.

Smoke/Air Quality: Smoke is visible and may impact the Pueblo of Jemez and the communities of Gilman and Cañon. 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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