First we have an update on the Turkeyfeather and Goose Fire:
As of this morning July 15, the Turkeyfeather Wildfire—first reported on June 30 and located approximately 22 miles southeast of Reserve—is 19% contained. Fire crews continue to conduct firing operations along 28 Road, from the slash pit road down to Gilita Creek. Containment lines were successfully constructed and reinforced around two spot fires totaling approximately 125 acres. In addition, firefighters used equipment to strengthen these lines and address hazardous snags. The area remains under close monitoring as crews assess the need for further action.
Meanwhile, the Goose Fire, which began on July 9 and is located 18 miles northwest of Silver City in the Gila National Forest, remains at 0% containment. On July 14, crews conducted scouting operations along Forest Road 282 to Trail 238 and patrolled the fire’s western perimeter to identify residual heat. Today, firefighters are continuing line preparation along Forest Roads 282 and 4083V toward Monument Ridge to reinforce potential control lines. Additional resources have been ordered to support a newly established division, and medical teams have been deployed into remote areas to ensure rapid emergency response if needed.
In other news:
The Gila National Forest has enacted a public safety area closure to protect both firefighter and public health and safety during ongoing wildfire suppression efforts on the Goose Fire. The closure took effect at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, and will remain in place until wildfire operations are complete and the associated public safety threat has been mitigated, at which point the closure order will be rescinded. The closure encompasses all National Forest System (NFS) lands, as well as portions of NFS roads and trails located within the designated closure boundary.
Effective this morning, July 15, and pursuant to Town of Silver City Ordinance Section 18-24 (9), all fire restrictions within the city limits of the Town of Silver City have been lifted. This decision follows careful evaluation by the Silver City Fire Department’s Fire Chief and Deputy Chief, who have monitored conditions throughout the town and reviewed up-to-date forecasts and reports from the U.S. Forest Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The lifting of fire restrictions applies to all areas within the municipal boundaries of Silver City.