Due to recent precipitation and cooler temperatures, the Gila National Forest Supervisor lifted fire restrictions effective 8:00 a.m. on July 7. While the risk of wildfire has decreased, the fire danger rating for the forest remains at “Very High.” Visitors are urged to exercise caution by properly disposing of cigarettes, refraining from building campfires during dry, hot, or windy conditions, avoiding parking hot vehicles over tall vegetation, and ensuring that trailer chains do not drag behind vehicles.
Significant changes are underway along 10th Street on the Western New Mexico University (WNMU) campus on the hillside near Centennial Hall. The installation of boulders, retaining blocks, and other structural elements marks the first phase of a garden project led by the WNMU Horticulture Coordinator and her team. These initial efforts focus on soil retention in preparation for the planting of Climate-Ready trees, which aim to identify tree species that can thrive in current conditions while also serving an educational purpose. As the climate evolves, the garden will provide the community with valuable insights into which tree species are most resilient, helping inform future choices for home gardening and landscape planning.
A follow-up Community Town Hall Meeting focused on addressing questions related to Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS) is scheduled for tomorrow, July 9, at 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Grant County Veterans Memorial Business and Conference Center Room #107. The meeting will explore concerns such as whether HMS is effectively fulfilling its mission to provide medical and behavioral health services to underserved populations and if they are using taxpayer funds appropriately. . Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in respectful and inclusive conversations, share their perspectives, and collaboratively develop constructive recommendations for moving forward in a healthy and community-centered manner.
Last in our news is an update on the Panther and Trout Fire:
As of the morning of July 8th, the Panther Fire—first reported on July 2nd and located approximately 10 miles west of Lake Roberts—is 32 percent contained. Hotshot crews have successfully constructed a fireline around three sides of the fire. One of the crews is scheduled for extraction today, while the remaining crew will continue securing the established perimeter. Aerial resources will be deployed as needed to support containment efforts. Meanwhile, the Trout Fire, which ignited on June 12th and is located 12 miles north of Silver City, has reached 96 percent containment. Firefighters will focus today on addressing residual heat near the fire’s southwest edge and remain available for initial attack response in the surrounding area. Road repair operations will also continue across the Trout Fire’s footprint.
