MAGDALENA, NM –The Cibola National Forest and Grasslands’ Magdalena Ranger District is planning two prescribed burns to benefit wildlife habitat and to prevent the threat of potential wildfire. The burns will begin the week of April 22, 2013 and will continue until completed, depending on weather and vegetation conditions.
- The 6,600-acre East Magdalena II burn is located 15 miles southeast of Magdalena, New Mexico and 20 miles southwest of Socorro, NM. The dominate vegetation is ponderosa pine, mix conifer and piñon/juniper with light to moderate grass cover.
- The 2,300-acre Gallinas burn is located 13 miles northwest of Magdalena, New Mexico. The dominate vegetation is piñon/juniper with light to moderate grass cover.
Prior to igniting of these two burns, the Magdalena Ranger District will ensure that there is a favorable weather forecast and that the required personnel and equipment are on hand. Fire management crews will monitor the burn for as long as necessary to ensure public safety.
During these prescribed burns, there may be delays when traveling on some of the following forest roads:
- For the East Magdalena II burn, there may be some delays on Forest Roads (FR) 235, 235B and 406.
- On the Gallinas burn delays may occur on Forest Roads 10, 10D, 10E and 12.
There will be additional fire vehicles patrolling and monitoring the area. Please drive carefully when on these roads, as visibility might be lower due to smoke. Use caution and drive with your headlights on. Smoke will be visible along US Highway 60 for both burns.
For more information contact the Magdalena Ranger District at 575-854-2281 or email cwolfe@fs.fed.us.