Officials from the Gila National Forest will host a public meeting on August 28 to discuss the Black Fire Recovery – Phase 1 project, which focuses on disaster recovery and restoration efforts within the Black Range, Wilderness, and Silver City Ranger Districts. The meeting will center on a preliminary list of projects identified in the WRAP, aimed at supporting recovery and restoration opportunities in watersheds impacted by the Black Fire. The meeting will take place at the Upper Mimbres Fire Department – Thunderbird Station in Mimbres from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Public input and insight are being sought to help shape the activities and methods proposed for the project.
Trail crews from the Silver City and Glenwood Ranger Districts recently collaborated on a trail sign improvement project within the Gomez Peak trail system. To enhance navigability across the dense network of non-motorized trails, the crews removed 70 outdated and signs and installed 14 new trail signs, which include maps and clear identification at key junctions. An additional 19 markers were placed to help users distinguish non-system routes for easier navigation, without restricting access. Beyond signage, the crews also rebuilt a collapsed rock wall and naturalized abandoned non-system trails, further improving both the safety and sustainability of the trail network.
The United States Air Force has proposed modifications to ten existing Military Operations Areas (MOAs) spanning southern Arizona into southwest New Mexico, including portions of the Gila Wilderness, as part of its Special Use Optimization Strategy to expand low-elevation combat training. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking public input on the potential impacts of this proposed airspace expansion, including effects on aviation operations, airports, private aviation, and public safety. Public comments must be submitted by September 19. Additional information and instructions for submitting comments are available at website.
In Luna County news:
The Juvenile Justice Continuum of Services is set to host Stand for Silent, a community event dedicated to raising awareness and taking a united stand against bullying and youth violence. The event is scheduled for August 26 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the historic Luna County Train Depot Auditorium. The goal of the event is to help bring community members together in a shared effort to foster support and inspire positive change for local youth.
