Here’s a look at today’s headlines:
Gusty west to southwest winds were expected this afternoon until around nine o’clock this evening for most of Grant, Luna, Hidalgo and Sierra Counties. These winds were expected to produce areas of blowing dust by mid-afternoon. Winds will slowly diminish overnight. Winds could cause potentially hazardous driving conditions, especially for high profile vehicles. Winds may also cause loose objects to blow around. Due to windy conditions, a fire weather watch is in effect through this evening for Fire Weather Zones 055, 111 and 112, including the lowlands of Grant County, Luna County and Hidalgo County.
The Grant County Chamber of Commerce has received a call from a local business regarding a scammer identifying themselves as “the chamber of commerce.” The Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce is not calling local businesses surveying them about business information. If you get a call from someone wanting information and you are not certain it is a legitimate call, ask for their phone number and tell them you will call them back. If you ever have a question that involves the Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce, call 538-3785 to reach the Chamber office.
The Gila National Forest has posted photos on their Facebook page showing the progress being made on the Catwalk construction project. Reconstruction has involved clearing rock slides from the trails and removing large boulders from the creek. Silt traps and other debris traps have been set up to minimize impacts to the stream and surrounding area during construction. Per the project schedule, work is planned to be completed by May 27th. During the reconstruction project, the Catwalk area has remained closed for public safety. Check out updates and photos on the Gila National Forest Facebook page.
In response to requests from the public, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will extend the comment period on a proposed land-use planning rule by 30 days. The proposed rule aims to improve the planning process by making it more collaborative, transparent, and effective. The comment period will be extended by 30 days, from April 25, 2016, to May 24, 2016.
Don’t forget the Tour of the Gila is coming up May 4th through the 8th and they are still looking for host houses. If you can host a racer, please contact Josh White at 575-313-7637 or email hosthousing@tourofthegila.com.
