Cibola NF Plans Implementation of Durfee Bolander Prescribed Fire on Magdalena Ranger District

Favorable weather conditions in place for hazardous fuels reduction work

(Albuquerque, NM – April 3, 2026) The Cibola National Forest & National Grasslands (NF & NGs) is planning implementation on the Magdalena Ranger District Durfee Bolander Prescribed (Rx) Fire as early as Saturday April 4, pending all required approvals. We estimate this work to be a multi-day operation as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

Prescribed fire planned for:
Durfee Bolander Rx Fire: 1,319 acres of broadcast burning that will use hand and aerial ignitions for units 1, 2B and 2C in the vicinity of Bolander Canyon along both sides of FSR 220 near the junction of FSR 220 and FSR 549. Smoke may be visible from Magdalena, Alamo, and Datil, NM. See map attached.

The areas may be closed to the public for several days for public safety. Watch for warning signs along roads near all prescribed fire areas before and during burns.

Residents may experience smoke during the prescribed burn. For more detailed information about air quality, go to AirNow online or download the app. Smoke is expected to lift during the day, however, cooler overnight temperatures may cause smoke to settle into low-lying areas surrounding the burn location. When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights when you encounter smoke on the road.

We will evaluate weather conditions in the hours before a burn begins. If conditions warrant, scheduled prescribed fire activities may be canceled.

We will notify county emergency management officials when burning begins.