ROSWELL, N.M. - Due to high fire danger and prolonged drought, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is implementing fire restrictions on BLM-managed lands within the Ft. Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area and public land tracts surrounding the community of Lincoln. The restrictions will go into effect on April 16, 2021, at 8 a.m. and will remain in place until further notice.
Prohibited acts include:
* Igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, including charcoal grills and barbecues, coal and wood burning stoves, and sheepherder’s stoves. Excepted are pressurized liquid or gas devices (stoves, grills, or lanterns) with shut-off valves.
* Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
The purpose of this order is for the protection of public health and safety by minimizing chances for wildfire starts. Abundant dry fuels, high fire danger, and worsening fire conditions, has prompted this action. The use of exploding targets in recreational shooting is already prohibited on all BLM lands in New Mexico.
Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both. Restitution for total costs of fire suppression or damage will be borne by the violator.
The BLM appreciates the public’s cooperation in helping to minimize the number of human-caused wildfires. For more information, please contact the BLM Roswell Field Office at 575-627-0272 or visit the BLM NM Fire Restrictions site. Additional fire restrictions information can be found at www.nmfireinfo.com.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
