Carson National Forest Fire Update

Prescribed Fire Ignitions Continue South of Tres Piedras

Carson National Forest fire crews began ignitions on the Dorado/Cañada del Agua Prescribed Fire south of Tres Piedras, NM, on Jun. 14 after careful consideration of forecasted weather and available resources in the area. One 25-person hotshot crew, along with engines, heavy equipment, hand crews and aircraft, were onsite to assist with the fire. More firefighting resources were staged nearby for quick response if needed. 

Yesterday, fire moved along the forest floor, successfully consuming ground fuels, such as grasses, dead and down trees, and needle cast in a 2,500-acre area. This low-intensity burn helps to reduce fuel loading for future wildfires and promotes forest resiliency and health. Crews will continue ignitions today while favorable weather and fire behavior conditions persist.

Maximum temperatures today will be in the mid 70s, with surface winds 10-15 mph and afternoon gusts up to 20 mph. Isolated rain showers may occur over the fire area, according to the latest National Weather Service spot forecast.

Updates for the Dorado/Cañada del Agua Prescribed Fire will be posted on InciWeb and the forest’s social media channels (Facebook, Twitter).

Type 3 Team Assumes Command of Comanche Fire

The Northern New Mexico Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command of the Comanche Fire at 8 a.m. Jun. 13. With no threat to lives, homes or infrastructure, fire managers are currently moving forward with a confine and contain strategy. This response limits firefighter exposure and allows fire to play its natural role in a fire-dependent ecosystem. Firefighter and public safety are the number one priority. The Comanche Fire was caused by lightning and first detected Jun. 8. It is located off Forest Road 137 on the El Rito Ranger District near the communities of El Rito, Abiquiu and Canjilon.