News Release

Valles Caldera Implements Stage II Fire Restrictions

Date: May 3, 2018
Contact: Kimberly DeVall, 505-412-0826

Due to the increased risk of wildfire in the region, Valles Caldera National Preserve will enter Stage II fire restrictions on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 8:00 AM. These restrictions are necessary to help land management agencies reduce fire risk and prevent wildfires.

Under Stage II restrictions:

• All fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal grills, and coal and wood stoves. The use of propane grills may be used in designated areas.
• All smoking within the preserve is prohibited, except in the parking area of the Valles Grande Entrance Station and must take place within parked vehicles.
• Welding or operating acetylene or other torches with an open flame is prohibited.
• Operating or using any internal combustion engine off of paved or graveled roads is prohibited. 
• The use of all firearms and explosives are prohibited, including but not limited to, fuses or blasting caps, fireworks, rockets, exploding targets, and tracers or incendiary ammunition.
• The operation of motor vehicles off of established roads or established parking areas is prohibited.
• The administrative use of chainsaws, other internal combustion equipment, and construction or welding equipment, may be permitted after project review by the Superintendent.
• Violation of these conditions can result in fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment of up to 6 months.

Under these fire restrictions, all campgrounds, trails and public use areas remain open. “While we recognize that these restrictions may impact people’s camping or picnicking plans, they are necessary to protect public health and safety due to the increased fire danger,” said Jason Lott, Superintendent of Bandelier National Monument. “We want the public to continue using and enjoying these parks, but we need them to use caution and help us reduce the risk of human-caused fires.”

Several criteria are used to determine when to implement fire restrictions, including fire activity levels, current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, and the availability of firefighting resources. Fire restriction criteria are routinely evaluated and restrictions could be upgraded or downgraded at any time. Therefore, visitors should check the park’s website for alerts prior to their visit.

Know before you go. Fire restrictions in New Mexico can be found at www.firerestrictions.us/nm and fire updates are posted on the New Mexico Fire Information website at www.nmfireinfo.com.