The Los Griegos prescribed pile burn started today at about 10 a.m. and may continue through October 31, only on favorable days as conditions allow. A total of 300 acres of piles may be treated in an area adjacent to the Sierra Los Pinos community, 17 miles southwest of Los Alamos. Small blocks may be treated each day to decrease the daily smoke volume.
A release from the Santa Fe National Forest said, “Prescribed fires are one of the most effective tools available to resource managers for restoring fire dependent ecosystems. These fires mimic natural fires by reducing forest fuels, recycling nutrients and increasing habitat diversity. Each prescribed burn is designed to meet specific objectives. The Los Griegos prescribed burn is designed to remove dead forest fuels, provide community protection, and promote forest health. These fires are managed with firefighter and public safety as the first priority.”
This is a continuation of an initial total of about 800 acres of slash piles to be burned. Earlier ignitions were conducted this season.
Smoke from the Los Griegos prescribed burn will be monitored to ensure that New Mexico Environment Department’s Air Quality Bureau regulations are being met. It will likely be visible from the Sierra Los Pinos community, La Cueva, Jemez Pueblo, San Ysidro, Zia Pueblo, Bernalillo, Rio Rancho and U.S. Highway 550.
Smoke sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found online at the New Mexico Environment Department’s website at https://nmtracking.org/fire.
For additional information about the Los Griegos Burn, please contact the Jemez Ranger District at 575-829-3535.