New Wildfire on El Rito Ranger District, Carson NF

Taos, NM – October 16, 2019 – A new wildfire is burning on the El Rito Ranger District near Forest Road 274E, 14 miles west of the community of Tres Piedras, NM. The Jarosita Fire was reported on Monday, October 14 and is approximately 34 acres. It is burning in mixed conifer with a high concentration of dead standing and dead and down fuels.

A full suppression strategy is being utilized. Quick response by firefighters have stopped forward progression. No structures or other values are threatened. The cause is under investigation.

The fire is adjacent to a short portion of the Continental Divide Trail. Hikers in the area are encouraged to use caution or seek alternative routes.

Smoke may be visible from the communities of Canjilon, Tres Piedras & El Rito as well as surrounding communities including Taos. 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/ or contact the El Rito Ranger District 575-581-4554.

Despite rain across the area a few weeks ago and cooler nighttime temperatures, fire managers are cautioning forest users to be mindful of the unseasonably dry conditions across the Carson National Forest. Although there are currently no fire restrictions on the forest, there is still a risk of fires spreading from ignition sources such as abandoned campfires or burning yard waste, especially on windy days. Please make sure burning material is dead-out before leaving the area and consider not burning on windy days.

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