The Gila National Forest is actively responding to a new wildfire, known as the Crimson Fire, which ignited yesterday, August 26th, as a result of lightning. The fire has burned approximately 10 acres and is located on a ridge between Rain Creek and West Mogollon Creek, southwest of Mogollon Baldy Peak, within the scar of the 2012 Whitewater Baldy Complex Fire. It is currently creeping, backing, and flanking through pinyon and juniper brush while consuming heavy dead and down fuels left from the previous fire. A Type 3 helicopter has been assigned to support suppression efforts.
Last week, the State Engineer issued a decision denying Tulla Resources’ application to transfer water rights necessary to reopen the Copper Flat Mine near Hillsboro in southern New Mexico. The denial was based on the hearing examiner’s findings that the proposed transfer would impair existing surface and groundwater rights, that the company failed to demonstrate its ability to put the water to beneficial use within the 10-year permit term, and that the application would be detrimental to the public welfare by negatively impacting New Mexico’s Compact obligations with Texas. The Copper Flat Mine, which operated for three months in 1982 before closing, left behind contaminated groundwater and a toxic pit lake, and it has remained inactive ever since.
The Grant County Community Council will hold its upcoming community meeting on August 28 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Grant County Memorial Business and Conference Center. The agenda will feature key highlights, including results from the New Mexico Community Survey, updates on senior services, progress on the Transportation Resource Mapping initiative, revisions to Health Council Guidelines, and an overview of Senate Bill 3—the Behavioral Health Reform and Investment Act. The public is encouraged to attend.
In other news:
Outdoor recreation businesses across New Mexico are invited to apply for the newly expanded Adventure Pitch Fest, a statewide competition offering $15,000 in cash prizes for innovative business ideas. Participants will present their pitches in a head-to-head format before a panel of distinguished judges, competing not only for prize money but also for statewide recognition. The event will also provide opportunities for businesses to showcase their products and services to investors, industry leaders, and outdoor enthusiasts. Applications to pitch or host a table will be accepted from September 1–30, with Pitch Fest scheduled for Thursday, November 6. For more information and to apply, visit website.
