Here’s a look at today’s headlines:
The Round Fire burning in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness is currently 7,397 acres in size. Management of the fire has transitioned to a Type 4 organization and rehabilitation efforts have begun including rehabbing roads and rebuilding any fences affected by the fire.
The Baca Fire area closure was rescinded today as of 10 am. Forest Service Roads 13, 13D, and 93 are now reopened to the public. The segment of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) from Dead Horse Canyon north to Highway 60 is also open to hikers. The Baca Fire, at approximately 11,139 acres, is located on the Quemado Ranger District, Gila National Forest and has been burning since May 12, 2017. The fire will continue to be monitored by the Mangas Lookout, but no smoke has been reported since June 24th.
New Mexico State Police initiated a Search and Rescue mission in reference to a missing person report. Phillip Cook, 24, of Albuquerque was reported missing on Thursday, June 22nd around 3:40 pm. His vehicle was located near State Road 15 mile post 36. We regret to report that his body was found on Saturday morning just after 9 am. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator of an apparent gunshot wound. The initial investigation indicated the gunshot wound was self-inflicted.
The Farm Service Agency is reminding farmers and ranchers that July 17th is the deadline to report 2017 planted acres for most crops. Producers who haven’t completed planting by the July 17th deadline can still file a timely report up to 15 days after planting is complete.
