Here is a look at some local news and happenings brought to you by Silver City Radio.
The Gila National Forest is reporting an unusually wet spring on the Gila National Forest. Caution is advised to nearly all visitors due to soft roads and abnormally high river flows. The 2022 monsoon season delivered nearly double the amount of rain as compared to an average season, with greater than average precipitation continuing through winter. As a result, water tables are recharged, and the ground remains saturated. Streams that typically only flow during or after recent storm events are still experiencing above-normal flows, with many sites registering two to three times the long-term average flow. Hikers and equestrians are advised against attempts to cross any fork of the Gila River. Rafters report numerous fallen-tree hazards across the Gila River, flooded campsites, and other safety concerns associated with high flows. Forest roads at higher elevations remain snowbound, boggy, and soft, ready to entrap the unsuspecting motorist. Access to Catwalk National Recreation Area is inadvisable due to 3-foot water depth at the last stream crossing.
In other news, a US Migration Study has been released that shows that New Mexico is ranked 9th in net growth in the nation. New Mexico has experienced an increase of 35% net gain of new people moving into the state in 2022, according to the Hire a Helper’s 5th Annual US migration report. Albuquerque saw an net increase in population of 14%. States such as Vermont and Maine saw the largest net gains. States experiencing the greatest loss of residents include New Jersey and California.
For our local 4-Hers and ag students, there will be a show stock selection training on March 28th, from 6 to 7:30 at the Grant County Extension office. On March 26th, there will be a show cattle showmanship practice and weight check from 10am to noon at the Cliff fairgrounds.
For Grant County residents, this Saturday is considered “Spring Cleaning” time in the communities of Grant County. You can bring your large items for disposal for free and help put trash where it belongs. On March 18th from 9am to noon at Gough Park in Silver City drop off your large items such as refrigerators, washers and dryers and the like. No hazardous waste or liquids will be accepted. You can also participate in the community trash pick-up. Volunteers sign in at 9am. For more information Silver City Toss No Mas dot org.
