New Mexico
Laguna Fire: 15,714 acres; 40% contained in northern New Mexico
The Laguna Fire has burned 15,714 acres in northern New Mexico and is 40% contained, as of an update fire managers provided Wednesday.
SANTA FE, N.M. — The Laguna Fire has burned 15,714 acres and is 40% contained in the Santa Fe National Forest in northern New Mexico, as of an update fire managers provided Wednesday.
Lightning started the Laguna Fire June 25 in an area four miles northeast of Gallina, New Mexico. 291 firefighters are responding to the fire as five crews and with eight engines, four helicopters, an unmanned aircraft, three water tenders, two dozers and four ambulances. The fire is burning oak brush, piñon-juniper and mixed conifer.
The Santa Fe National Forest provided this map showing the containment of the fire:
Firefighters focused on patrolling hazards, reinforcing containment lines and protecting areas at risk Tuesday. On the northwestern edge of the fire, firefighters continued monitoring the perimeter and assessed opportunities for further containment. Air resources also provided water drops in that area.
In the central and eastern areas, crews assessed hotspots. They also worked to prevent further fire spread as they say the area still holds heat.
Firefighters are in communities near the Rio Gallina and Rio Chama. They are monitoring conditions and addressing areas “that pose continued risk.”
Meteorologists predict hotter and drier weather for the Laguna Fire area Wednesday in New Mexico. They expect that to possibly increase the spread of fire and smoke.
Managers will focus on securing the containment line from the southeastern perimeter. They are prioritizing that area due to its steep terrain and importance as a watershed for nearby communities. An unmanned aircraft will help provide “aerial support and reconnaissance” to firefighters in the northern part of the fire.
Beyond Wednesday, meteorologists anticipate “a continued warming and drying trend” for the area. They expect more days with warmer temperatures and lower humidity. However, winds will be light throughout the day.
For the most up-to-date smoke information, you can visit this website. Meanwhile, the U.S. Forest Service also put a closure order in place for their lands in this area.
Gallina Ranch is still in “Go” evacuation status. The Monastery of Christ in the Desert remains in “Set” status. You can also find the latest Laguna Fire evacuations on the New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department website.
SANTA FE, N.M. – Santa Fe County and Edgewood approved a new agreement and ordinance that secures ongoing fire and EMS services for Edgewood residents.
According to a joint announcement from the Town of Edgewood and Santa Fe County on June 19, the two governments negotiated and adopted a new Joint Powers Agreement and ordinance to keep the Santa Fe County Fire Department serving the town.
County and town representatives drafted the agreement together. The town adopted the ordinance unanimously at a special meeting on June 16, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty.
Santa Fe County District 3 Commissioner Camilla Bustamante said, “I believe we are all relieved to know that the people of Edgewood will continue to have the fire and EMS services necessary to protect their homes, their families, and their community. This community deserves nothing less.”
The announcement said the ordinance takes effect five days after final publication. The statement also said no further action or approval is needed to guarantee continued fire suppression, fire prevention, and EMS services for Edgewood residents.
Both governments noted the agreement will continue indefinitely unless either side ends it with five years’ notice.
New Mexico leaders are backing a bipartisan bill after 12 confirmed U.S. screwworm cases, including one case in a Lea County dog.
SANTA FE, N.M. – New Mexico leaders are backing a bipartisan bill after 12 confirmed U.S. screwworm cases, including one case in a Lea County dog.
New Mexico State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Holeck said the parasite has spread to New Mexico, though officials say they have not found any human cases.
“This is also not a political issue this is a nationwide issue that we all need to address because it affects all warm blooded animals including humans,” Holeck said.
U.S. Reps. Gabe Vasquez and Teresa Leger Fernandez support the Protect America’s Herds Act.
The bill would create a grant program to train people to identify, treat, prevent and report screwworm. It would also support more livestock inspections and education for ranchers.
Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez said she heard concerns from tribal leaders about the cost of protecting cattle herds.
“I spoke with one of our tribal leaders today and they have cattle operation and they’re worried, and they’re talking about how much more money they’re having to pay to go make sure they check on their herds and there are extra costs,” Leger Fernandez said.
Funding would prioritize states and tribal communities most at risk for screwworm outbreaks.
State health officials said screwworm is not a food safety issue. They also said ranchers should stay alert but not alarmed.
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