Fire Managers to conduct the North Hondo Prescribed Fire

Release Date: Feb 1, 2017

Albuquerque, NM, January 31, 2017 - The North Hondo prescribed fire will be implemented on the Sandia Ranger District as soon as conditions are favorable in the next few weeks.  These planned ignitions mimic natural fires and help to restore fire dependent ecosystems by reducing forest fuels, recycling nutrients, and increasing habitat diversity.  This project is also designed to provide wildfire protection to nearby communities.  Public and fire fighter safety are a priority in all fire related activities.

The North Hondo will treat up to 100 acres of slash piles from a recent restoration project.  The project area is located west of Cedar Crest, west of Highway 14, and North of I-40.  Six to eight fire fighters from Cibola National Forest and partner agencies will participate.  Ignition will begin at approximately 9:00 AM and cease no later than 3:00 PM and the burn will likely last for three days.  Smoke may be present for several days after ignitions are complete.

The New Mexico Department of Environmental Quality http://www.nmenv.state.nm.us/aqb/ has been engaged in the planning process and every effort will be made to minimize smoke impacts.  Smoke conditions will be monitored by the NM Department of Transportation and State Police for impacts to Hwy 14 and I-40.  Smoke sensitive individuals are encouraged to take precautionary measures.  Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found on the New Mexico Department of Health website at https://nmtracking.org/fire