News Release

Valles Caldera National Preserve Begins Winter Prescribed Burns

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News Release Date: January 7, 2022
Contact: Dave Krueger

Jemez Springs, NM – Tomorrow, January 8, the National Park Service will begin the prescribed burn projects in Valles Caldera National Preserve by burning piles of previously thinned materials in the Cerro Seco area. This is the first of five areas around the preserve where burn piles have been prepared. The operation is expected to take a few days to complete. The purpose is to reduce hazardous fuels and the chance for future high-intensity wildfires.

Smoke may be visible from all directions coming into the Jemez Mountains, including La Cueva, Sierra Los Pinos, Jemez Springs, Jemez Pueblo, Cañon, Gilman and Los Alamos. Smoke may linger for a few days after each burn.

Review the initial new release announcing the prescribed burns for additional information.

Updates will be posted on the preserve’s website, Twitter @VallesCaldera, and Facebook page. Smoke-sensitive individuals may also be added to the preserve’s notification system by contacting e-mail us or 575-829-4100, option 3.

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The Cerro Seco area where the burn piles are located.

NPS/Mike Shelley