The Willow Fire, that started on Sunday, is burning on National Forest lands in the northeast corner of Willow Mountain in the Glenwood Ranger District. As of the last report received, the fire is comprised of 80 acres and is located about 400 yards above Crest Trail #182 with 0% containment. Therefore, Crest Trail #182 will be closed from Sandy Point to Trail #172 for public health and safety. The fire is burning fairly hot in heavy timber and spotting. With fire fighter safety being first priority, fire management officials have determined that an indirect strategy with point protection tactics is the best strategy for this fire. Values at risk are the Indian Creek cabin and the Willow Creek subdivision. NM Highway 159 is closed at mile post 12 into Willow Creek. It has been determined the cause of the fire was lightning.
Regarding the Buzzard Fire, that started on May 22nd, located 10 miles NE of Reserve in the Gila National Forest, has covered 41,227 acres, is utilizing 383 personnel and has a containment of 69%. Crews are beginning to construct and strengthen control lines along the southwestern edge of the fire to protect private land, wildlife habitat, cultural resources and grazing allotments. The Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team continues to assess private property to develop emergency treatments to protect properties from extreme water runoff and erosion.
Smoke from fire rises up and away during the daytime, but in the evening smoke can pool back down in canyons, drainages, and basins. For information on air quality and protecting your health, and to find guidance on distances and visibility, please visit https://nmtracking.org/fire. Fire information can be found at nmfireinfo.com.
For information on the Gila National Forest, check out the website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/gila or join the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GilaNForest/ or follow us on Twitter @GilaNForest.
