Powderhouse Prescribed Fire
The Powderhouse Prescribed Fire is part of a larger effort to reduce the threat of wildfire to infrastructure, like the Costilla Dam, and the Valle Vidal overall. Regular fire helps restore many of the forest’s ecosystems and can reduce the threat of a catastrophic wildfire severely affecting the recently restored population of Rio Grande cutthroat trout, a project over 20 years in the making. It also helps maintain productive rangelands that support permitted grazing and local wildlife, including the area's famous elk herds.
Once connected by the Commanche Prescribed Fire, where ignitions could occur in October 2025, the Powderhouse Unit be part of a nearly 40,000-acre contiguous area where fire has recently been reintroduced.
Logistics
- Timing: As early as Sept. 23, 2025 (view updates)
- Nearby Communities: Amalia, N.M.
- Nearby Recreation Sites: Cimarron and McCrystal campgrounds (will remain open)
- Acres: 8,288
- Length of Ignitions: 7 to 10 days (estimated)
- Burn Type: Understory
- Primary Vegetation Types: Ponderosa, Mixed Conifer and Spruce-Fir
Steps You Can Take
Subscribe for Email Updates
Stay in the know and join Carson National Forest's email list to get prescribed fire igntion notices and more.
Get Smoke-Ready
Smoke can affect everyone’s health. Use these tips to reduce exposure.
Do Your Part at Home
While crews work to reduce the threat of wildfire on Forest Service land, it's a great time to do the same on your property. Check out New Mexico's preparedness guide.