The Gila National Forest has closed Quemado Lake and several surrounding recreation areas after the New Mexico Environment Department detected dangerously high levels of microcystins, a harmful algal toxin, in the water. The closure includes the lake, parking lot, boat dock, dam area, and nearby access trails to protect public health. Officials warn that the water is unsafe for drinking, swimming, boating, fishing, or any other recreational use, and pets should be kept away from the lake. The New Mexico Environment Department will continue monitoring water quality and provide updates as conditions change.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) has finalized plans to improve US 180, NM 90, and 14th Street in Silver City, with a focus on increasing safety and improving traffic flow. The project includes new and upgraded sidewalks and crossings that meet accessibility standards, a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle crossing at the US 180 and NM 90 intersection, improved bicycle lanes where space allows, and upgraded traffic signals. After reviewing public feedback, NMDOT determined the proposed design will increase safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians without significantly disrupting nearby traffic patterns.
Luna County is nearing completion of its new $6 million Emergency Operations Center, with final work focused on installing a new radio tower and upgraded communications equipment. The $621,805 communications project, funded by the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration, includes new radios, dispatch consoles and other technology designed to improve emergency response and communication for first responders. County officials also plan to join the New Mexico State Trunked Radio System within the next two years once all compliance requirements are met.
In other news:
The Bureau of Land Management has opened a 30-day public scoping period to gather input on 15 oil and gas parcels totaling 4,054 acres that could be included in a February 2027 lease sale in New Mexico. The parcels are in the early stages of the federal leasing process, and any future development would require additional environmental review and permitting. The public comment period runs through Sept. 4. Information about the proposed parcels, maps and instructions for submitting comments is available on the BLM’s ePlanning website.
