CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. – The Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands is preparing to carry out multiple prescribed fire projects in the coming weeks, including several on the Mt. Taylor Ranger District near Grants.
Officials said the work is expected to continue through the remaining winter months into spring as conditions allow. Ignition dates are not set and will depend on wind, weather, fuel moisture, and required approvals.
Prescribed fire – also called Rx fire - is used to reduce hazardous fuels and overgrown vegetation, lowering the risk of more intense wildfires later in the year and helping protect communities, infrastructure, and natural resources.
Projects planned near Grants Monighan Rx Fire — 3,907 acres
A broadcast burn on the Bluewater Project about 27 miles west of Grants and 13 miles southeast of Fort Wingate, within the Zuni Mountains. Smoke may be visible in Ramah, Gallup, Thoreau, Bluewater, Grants, and Milan.
Black Mesa Rx Fire — 11,506 acres A broadcast burn on the Black Mesa Wildlife Habitat Improvement Project about 20 miles north of Grants, in McKinley and Sandoval counties. Smoke may be visible in Grants, Albuquerque, Cuba, Jemez, along NM 550, and potentially near I-40 depending on conditions.
McGaffey and McQue Flats Rx Fire — 1,665 acres
A broadcast burn on the Bluewater Project about 63 miles from Grants and 13 miles southeast of Fort Wingate, within the Zuni Mountains. Smoke may be visible in Ramah, Gallup, Thoreau, Bluewater, Grants, and Milan.
What Residents Should Know
Residents may see smoke on short notice when weather windows open. People with respiratory conditions should be ready to limit outdoor activity on smoky days, and drivers should use caution if smoke reduces visibility on roadways.