Peterson Fire – San Miguel County – April 23, 2021

The Peterson Fire is a new wildfire located five miles northwest of Las Vegas, NM in San Miguel County. The fire is estimated at 20 acres and burning on both sides of Highway 65 near the Peterson Reservoir. Structures are threatened. The United World College and nearby residents are evacuating as a precaution. The fire is actively burning in timber and brush on state and private land. Numerous resources with the Forestry Division, San Miguel County, USDA Forest Service, and other local fire departments are on the scene or in route. A helicopter is currently assisting with fire suppression efforts. Strong winds of 15-20 miles per hour are driving the fire to the east. This is a developing situation and more information will be provided as necessary.

Individuals sensitive to wildfire smoke should take precautions and use the New Mexico Department of Health 5-3-1 Visibility Method to determine if it’s safe to be outside. Learn more at 
https://nmtracking.org/environment/air/FireAndSmoke.html. 

Incident Name: Peterson Fire

Start Date & Time: April, 23, 2021 – 1330
Start Location: Highway 65 near the Peterson Reservoir
Cause of Fire:  Under investigation

Area Vegetation: Timber, brush

Estimated Acres Burned: 20

Ownership(s): state and private

Structures Threatened: Yes

Structures Burned: No

Evacuations: Yes

Wendy Mason
Wildfire Prevention & Communications Coordinator
EMNRD Forestry Division
wendy.mason@state.nm.us