News Release

Valles Caldera Plans Fall Prescribed Burn

Date: October 1, 2021
Contact: Jorge Silva-Bañuelos, 575-829-4100, ext 3

Jemez Springs, NM - The National Park Service (NPS) is planning a prescribed fire in the southwest corner of Valles Caldera National Preserve later this fall to reduce hazardous fuels, improve wildlife habitat, and create healthier and more resilient ecosystems.

Fire managers with the preserve aim to take advantage of expected favorable conditions, including fuel moisture levels, air quality, and forecasted weather. The prescribed burn, planned between October 11 and November 30, 2021, includes 338 acres in the Southwest Banco Bonito area, adjacent to New Mexico State Route 4 near mile marker 30.

A final decision on whether to proceed with a specific prescribed burn depends on multiple factors, including the national wildland fire preparedness level, resource availability, fuel moisture levels, air quality, and forecasted weather. The NPS also will take a risk-informed approach to managing prescribed fire during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prescribed fire is part of a science-based framework for managing ponderosa pine and dry mixed-conifer forests to reduce the risk of high severity wildfire and allow low intensity fire to play its natural and beneficial role in this frequent-fire ecosystem. Each prescribed burn is designed to meet specific objectives and will be managed with firefighter and public safety as the highest priority.

The NPS manages prescribed firest in compliance with New Mexico state regulations on air quality and smoke management. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found at the New Mexico Department of Health Environmental Public Health Tracking website. Information on the Forest Stewards Guild's HEPA Filter Loan Program can also be found online.

All fire updates will be posted on our website, Twitter, Facebook, and the New Mexico Fire Information website. Smoke-sensitive individuals may also be added to the preserve's notification system by emailing us or calling 575-829-4100, ext. 3.

About Valles Caldera National Preserve
About 1.25 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created the 13-mile wide circular depression now known as Valles Caldera. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and embraces a rich ranching history.

About the National Park Service
More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 420 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us on our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube.