The Gila National Forest, in coordination with a permittee, is conducting hazard tree removal and a small-scale forest thinning project along the Frisco Divide Road (Forest Road 209), located south of U.S. Highway 180 between Reserve and Luna in the Quemado Ranger District. The project includes the removal of marked, standing dead trees to enhance public safety for travelers and campers along the roadway. In addition, designated trees affected by dwarf mistletoe and mountain pine beetles will be harvested in a small unit at Horse Mesa. These actions are intended to reduce insect and disease infestation, thereby improving the overall health and resilience of the remaining forest stand. Operations are expected to continue for approximately one month.
The New Mexico State Land Office (NMSLO) will host a series of public meetings from September 23 to 25 to present an overview of a proposed land exchange with the Federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The proposal outlines the transfer of approximately 85,000 acres of state trust land from the NMSLO to the BLM in exchange for federal lands of equal value. Meetings are scheduled at the Hidalgo County Council Chambers on September 23, the Mimbres Valley Special Events Center on September 24, and the Grant County Business and Conference Center on September 25. Each session will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
The Luna County Road Department has initiated road construction reclamation and chip seal operations on Geranio Road, southeast of Akela off NM 549. Residents are encouraged to exercise patience and remain alert to traffic control measures and construction personnel while traveling through the area. Community members with questions are advised to contact the Luna County Road Department for additional information.
In New Mexico news:
The New Mexico Economic Development Department is accepting applications for a newly established advisory board designed to support the state’s growing technology and innovation sectors. The board will play a key role in guiding strategic planning for the department’s recently created Technology and Innovation Division, offering recommendations, fostering collaboration between the state and private industry, and assisting in the administration of the Research, Development, and Deployment Fund. For more information and to submit an application, visit website.
