The Santa Fe National Forest in New Mexico is planning a prescribed burn in the North Joaquin area, starting September 26, 2024. This controlled burn, covering 1,701 acres, aims to improve forest health, reduce wildfire risk, and enhance wildlife habitat. Smoke may be visible from nearby communities like Albuquerque, Jemez Springs, and the Pueblo of Jemez. The burn is part of the Chaparral National Environmental Policy Act decision and will last approximately five days, utilizing both aerial and ground ignition methods. The project is located roughly six miles west of Jemez Springs and three miles south of Rancho de Chaparral Girl Scout Camp.
Prescribed Fire Benefits and Safety in Santa Fe National Forest
Prescribed fires, like the one planned for North Joaquin, play a crucial role in restoring the natural balance of forest ecosystems within the Santa Fe National Forest. By reducing excess fuel buildup, these controlled burns minimize the risk of catastrophic wildfires that can threaten communities and destroy valuable resources. The burns also promote healthy forest regeneration and create diverse habitats for wildlife. Fire managers prioritize firefighter and public safety when conducting prescribed burns. The decision to proceed depends on several factors including weather conditions, air quality, and fuel moisture levels. Crews will closely monitor and manage the burn to ensure it stays within designated boundaries.
North Joaquin Prescribed Burn: Area and Road Closures
To ensure public safety during the North Joaquin prescribed burn, temporary area and road closures will be in effect from 7:00 a.m. on September 26, 2024, to 12:00 a.m. on October 1, 2024. The closure area encompasses Forest Road (FR) 376 from the gate north of Gilman Tunnels to the gate at Porter Landing. Additionally, the area bounded by the intersection of FR 376 and FR 534, following FR 534 west to FR 376H, then southeast to FR 376, and back north to FR 534 will be closed. The Jemez Ranger Station will remain open on Saturday, September 28th, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to provide information about the North Joaquin prescribed fire and to issue Fuelwood Permits.
Staying Informed about the North Joaquin Prescribed Fire
For detailed information about the North Joaquin prescribed fire in the Santa Fe National Forest, contact the Jemez District Office at (575) 829-3535 or visit the office at 51 Woodsy Lane, Jemez Springs, NM 87025. Stay updated on current fire conditions and management activities by visiting the Santa Fe National Forest website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/santafe), NM Fire Info (https://nmfireinfo.com/), or following the Santa Fe National Forest on social media platforms like Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/santafeNF/) and X (https://x.com/SantafeNF).
The USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
