Fire Report 062218
The Ranch Fire was reported at approximately 3:15 p.m. in the Reserve Ranger District yesterday appears to have begun north of Saliz Pass. The fire is approximately 300-400 acres and is now on the west side of US Hwy 180. Retardant drops earlier in the evening were very effective in protecting the Tucson Electric Power (TEP) line west of the highway. The Navopache power line was impacted resulting in a power outage in Glenwood. Crews were successful with anchoring the east side up to US Hwy 180. There was a night-time firing operation along US Hwy 180 towards Cottonwood Canyon. Values at risk include the TEP and Navopache power lines, and a structure protection of private lands on the US Hwy 180 corridor. US Highway 180 is not closed. There are warning signs that there is a fire ahead, and that there may be extended delays, travelers could be asked to turn around, or wait to be piloted between mile posts 25-32 where burnout operations are taking place.
Regarding the Buzzard Fire that started in May 22nd, 10 miles northeast of Reserve in the Gila National Forest, 49,449 acres have been burned, 140 personnel are currently assigned, and containment is at 82%. Firefighters will continue firing operations and suppression actions in the southwest corner of the fire’s perimeter. The Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team are making good progress towards emergency treatments to protect life, property, natural and cultural resources. On the west portion of the fire, crews will conduct indirect firing operations to limit fire spread. Direct suppression efforts will be employed on the fire’s southern flank as opportunities arise to safely do so. Aviation resources will also be employed to aid in suppression activities. Some aerial resources will be shared with the Ranch Fire, which started yesterday on the Reserve Ranger District.
For more information, visit nmfireinfo.com or silvercityradio.com. We will keep you informed as information is available.
