Fire Crews Respond to First Wildfire of Season

Carson National Forest fire crews are on scene of the first wildfire of the season in the forest. The Sandoval Fire, first reported around 3:15 p.m., is located about two miles west of Petaca, N.M., with an estimated size between 2 and 3 acres. The low-intensity fire is burning with a moderate rate of spread on the floor in ponderosa pine, where fire is naturally frequent and low-intensity.

There is no threat to homes or infrastructure, and the cause is under investigation.

“We’ve been saying that this year’s fire season will potentially be early and significant, and here we are,” said Forest Fire Management Officer Brent Davidson. “Wildfires do not stop at property boundaries and we hope this puts into focus how important it is for everyone to prepare. Whether you have 10 minutes or 10 hours, you can do something to get ready for wildfire.”

Forest staff and local partners recommend the following to help residents prepare:

• From Firewise USA^®, six simple steps for fire-hardening your home ahead of a wildfire.
• From the State of New Mexico and partner agencies, “Ready, Set, Go” is a 12-page guide for property owners to get ready for fire season.

No further updates are planned for the Sandoval Fire unless conditions change.