FOREST SERVICE News:
Conditions may be favorable later this week for fire managers to begin the Paliza prescribed fire near the community of Ponderosa on Santa Fe National Forest’s Jemez Ranger District.
This activity could begin anytime Thursday or Sunday. Two days of ignition are expected and a total of 6,500 acres will be treated.
Our highest priority is firefighter and public safety. Other objectives of the Paliza prescribed fire are to reduce hazardous fuels in the Ponderosa watershed, enhance community protection, restore forest health, and minimize smoke impacts.
A community meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23 at the Ponderosa Community Center to discuss the Paliza prescribed fire and answer questions about planned operations. The public is invited to attend.
Fire managers will work closely with the New Mexico Environment Department Air Quality Bureau to minimize smoke impacts. Ignition sequencing will be utilized to reduce duration of smoke exposure. Variable smoke impacts are possible in Ponderosa, Jemez Springs, Jemez Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo, Bernalillo and surrounding communities.
The Sandoval County EOC Code Red Reverse 911 system may be used to distribute important safety messages to areas that could potentially be affected. For safety notifications in Sandoval County, sign up at https:////www.sandovalcounty.com/.
For additional information about the Paliza prescribed fire, contact the Jemez Ranger District at 575.829.3535.
