Triple Nickle Fire – Mt. Taylor Ranger District, Cibola NF – August 21, 2019

Grants, NM; August 21, 2019 – For Immediate Release. The Triple Nickle Fire located in the San Mateo Mountains, on the Mt. Taylor Ranger District is a lightning caused fire that is being managed for resource benefit. The fire has grown to an estimated 225 acres with approximately 100 personnel assigned.

In order to reduce firefighter exposure, fire managers are utilizing a values-driven strategy which incorporates a mix of tactics that will result in a high probability of success and acceptable risk in relationship to the values being preferred while meeting land management objectives. Management actions will be further determined by fire activity, weather, and the progression of the fire.

Fire behavior is low to moderate and burning in Ponderosa Pine, grass, and brush. Firefighters continue to formulate a strategic plan of action on the Triple Nickle Fire. Today fire crews will focus on the protection of private property by burning fuels adjacent to control lines before aerial ignitions occur. This process termed “blacklining” is usually done to reduce heat on holding crews and lessen chances for spotting across the control line. Management of the fire promotes forest health and resilience while reducing the potential for future uncharacteristic wildfires.

Smoke will likely be visible from Highway 550 and Interstate 40, east and northeast of Grants. Smoke impacts may occur on Forest Roads #555, #239, and #51, particularly in the evening hours when temperatures cool. Smoke will be monitored to assess potential health impacts and the Forest Service will coordinate with the New Mexico Environment Department and Department of Health to issue any needed alerts. Additional information can be found at http://nmtracking.org/fire.

For more information about the Triple Nickle Fire, please contact the Mt. Taylor Ranger District during regular business hours at 505-287-8833. You may also visit the New Mexico Fire Information website at https://nmfireinfo.com, https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6531/, Twitter:@Cibola_NF, and www.facebook.com/cibolanf.

Triple Nickle Fire Statistics

Size: 225 acres
Location: near the junction of Forest Service Road 239 and 555
Cause: Lightning
Expected size: 1000 to 3000 acres, depending on weather