Santa Fe National Forest prescribed fire update

Pile burns tentatively planned in Jemez and Espanola ranger districts

Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) fire managers have scheduled potential prescribed pile burns in both the Jemez and Espanola ranger districts as early as this week. Operations will involve pile burn projects intended to reduce hazardous fuels, enhance wildlife habitat, and improve forest health.  The decision to proceed with each pile burn will depend on multiple factors, including persistent snowpack, air quality, ventilation, and resource availability. Once ignited the pile burns are patrolled regularly and infrared detection devices such as a handheld thermal camera and an Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS drone) will help fire personnel determine when the pile burns are called out. A prescribed fire is determined to be out when vegetation is no longer burning within the area.

Jemez Ranger District

• The San Juan East pile burn is 171 acres of machine piles from a cut/skid/and deck project for firewood gathering located off lower Forest Road 10. Communities that smoke could affect would be Ponderosa, Sierra de Los Pinos and the Ponderosa Christian Camp, and Jemez Pueblo. Smoke may be visible from Highway 4 and 550. Posted signs will inform the public when operations begin.

Espanola Ranger District

• Pacheco Canyon pile burn is 253 acres located off Forest Road 102.
• Hyde Park pile burn is 642 acres located off Hyde Park Road.
• Join SFNF staff for a public meeting to discuss upcoming pile burns on Wednesday, January 10 at 5:30 p.m. at the Randall Davey Audubon Center and Sanctuary – 1800 Upper Canyon Road, Santa Fe N.M., 87501

For more information on winter prescribed fire activities visit the SFNF website, NM Fire Info, and the SFNF Facebook page.