Here’s a look at today’s headlines:
The five Board Members for the Silver Consolidated School Board met until nearly 10 o’clock last night. Board President Arnold Torres, in the open meeting, noted that no decisions had been bade and he would entertain a motion to approve the buyout of the superintendent for $60,000. The Board voted four to one in favor of the buyout, and John Carter was accepted as acting superintendent. Carter agreed to work with the coaches today in regards to possible reinstatement.
The lightning-caused Spur Fire on the Quemado Ranger District has grown to approximately 815 acres. New growth is within the perimeter identified under confine/contain strategy. There are currently no closure orders or trail restrictions in place. Forest users are being asked as usual to be careful with fire while enjoying the Memorial Day weekend.
The Magdalena Ranger District’s North Fire has grown to 2,530 acres. The lightning caused fire is being actively managed for multiple resource benefits. To ensure both public and firefighter safety, a temporary Closure Order has been issued in the vicinity of the North Fire. All National Forest System lands, roads and trails within the closure area are closed to public use. Closure areas include Trails 92, 91, 36, 37, 37A and 28 and Forest Roads 330, 378, 138, 138A, 56 and 52. This order shall remain in effect until December 31st, 2016, or until rescinded.
Gila National Forest offices will be closed in observance of the Memorial Day holiday on Monday, May 30th. Offices will resume regular business hours at 8 am Tuesday. The number of visitors in campgrounds and on trails generally increases over the Memorial Day weekend. Please plan ahead and be properly prepared for your trip. Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. Remember that cell phones are unreliable in many parts of the forest. Be aware that weather can change very quickly and plan accordingly. Don’t forget the Catwalk Recreation Trail is opening on Saturday at 10 am. Have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend!
USDA Farm Service Agency Administrator Val Dolcini announced that incentives resume this month for farmers and foresters who grow and harvest biomass for renewable energy and biobased products. The funds come through the Biomass Crop Assistance Program, which was reauthorized by the 2014 Farm Bill.
