September 6, 2019 
Date detected: September 2 Cause: Lightning
Location: Carson NF, Camino Real RD, between the Amole Group Shelter and FR 442
Size: approximately 10 acres
Fire behavior: creeping
Vegetation: ponderosa pine, mixed conifer
Resources: Total 70 personnel, including 2 crews, 2 engines, 1 wildland fire module
This morning, crews will begin planned hand ignitions south of Forest Road 442. Firing operations will continue through the weekend. Crews will also continue prepping and securing control lines around values at risk, such as the high voltage transmission and fiber optic lines that service the Taos and Peñasco area. Carson National Forest fire managers are employing these tactics to ensure a low intensity fire which mimics historical fires.
Management of the Amole Fire has transitioned to a local Type 3 Incident Management Team with Lance Elmore as the Incident Commander.
The Carson National Forest will be managing the lightning-caused Amole Fire on the Camino Real Ranger District within a 2,123 acre focus area. Allowing the fire to play its natural role in the ecosystem helps to meet a variety of resource objectives including restoring the forest system to more historic conditions, removing fuels that could feed future severe wildfires, and promoting growth of healthier timber stands.
Smoke is likely to become more visible over the coming days as firing operations continue and the fire spreads within the defined planning area. Smoke may be visible from Peñasco and the Taos area and may impact Highway 518. Smoke may drift and settle in the Peñasco and Taos area during the evening and morning hours. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with heart or respiratory problems are encouraged to take precautionary measures. For information on air quality and protecting your health, please visit https://nmtracking.org/fire. For information on the HEPA filter loan program, go to https://facnm.org/smoke#smokeanchor5.
Drivers should be cautious on Highway 518 due to increased fire traffic and firefighters working along the road way. Members of the public are welcome to call the Camino Real Ranger District for additional information at 575-587-2255, or visit the office at 15160 State Rd. 75 in Peñasco.
NM Fire Info 
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