The Gila National Forest, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, is replacing the 66-year-old South Fork Negrito Creek bridge on Forest Road 141. Due to the construction, a 4.5-mile segment of Forest Road 141 and the South Fork Campground are closed, with the closure expected to remain in effect through October unless the project is completed earlier. Despite clearly posted signs, the forest has received multiple reports of visitors attempting to bypass the closure by driving off-road, only to encounter impassable conditions at the bridge site. The temporary public safety closure strictly prohibits access to the closed section of Forest Road 141, and violations may result in federal court appearances, fines of up to $5,000, and imprisonment for up to six months.
Local 4-H members will soon travel to Las Cruces to participate in the 2025 New Mexico State 4-H Conference, scheduled for July 7–10 at the Las Cruces Convention Center. The four-day event will feature workshops in wildlife evaluation, horticulture, agronomy, and family and consumer sciences, along with officer elections, evening dances, and a fashion revue. The conference offers a valuable opportunity for youth to build leadership skills, gain confidence, and connect with peers in a supportive and engaging environment.
The City of Lordsburg has implemented temporary restrictions on certain types of fireworks due to heightened wildfire risk resulting from ongoing dry weather conditions. The directive prohibits the use and possession of aerial fireworks—such as stick-type rockets, mines, and missile-type rockets—as well as ground-audible devices like firecrackers and chasers. Fireworks permitted under the directive include cone fountains, crackling devices, flitter sparklers, ground spinners, illuminating torches, toy smoke devices, and wheels. Residents seeking additional information about the restrictions or upcoming July 4th events are encouraged to visit the City of Lordsburg’s official website or contact City Hall.
In New Mexico news:
The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) is now accepting applications for its FY26 New Mexico Local Meat Processing Grant (LMPG), which will provide up to $3 million in funding to support meat processors throughout the state. This grant aims to strengthen local food systems and enhance the capacity of New Mexico’s meat processing industry. Interested applicants can find detailed information on the Local Meat Processing Grant website and must submit proposals by visiting the website. The deadline to apply is July 31.
