New Mexico Meadow Jumping Mouse. Credit/USFWS

SFNF News:

SANTA FE – Effective immediately, portions of Santa Fe National Forest’s Jemez Ranger District will be under a special closure order for the protection of occupied habitat for the endangered New Mexico meadow jumping mouse.

This is in compliance with the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The mouse was listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as endangered earlier this year and these protections are needed until consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can be concluded.

Specifically, the closure area is located in the Jemez Mountains, along the Rio Cebolla and the San Antonio Creek. All activities are prohibited within the closure area. 

The following roads are excluded from the closure and will remain open: New Mexico State Highway 126, Forest Road 376, the environmental kiosk and its adjacent parking area on Forest Road 376 where the Rio Cebolla crosses the road, and Forest Road #132.

For more information on the closure area, contact the Jemez Ranger District at 505.829.3535.