Silver Fire Update – Today the weather is transitioning from a mild moist air mass that has been over the Black Range for several days and will be replaced with hot dry air, strong winds and low humidity. The previous days’ favorable weather conditions allowed firefighters to make progress on construction of 3 miles of containment line. The 23,200 acre fire remains at five percent containment.
There are now 586 firefighters working the fire including five helicopters, eight 20-person hotshot crews, five 20-person hand crews, 16 engines, two dozers, 11 water tenders and multiple aircraft.
To ensure public safety, the Aldo Leopold Wilderness has been closed east of NM State Highway 152 from the Continental Divide National ScenicTrail #74 south to Reeds Peak. NM State Highway 152 from San Lorenzo to Hillsboro remains closed. Trail #79 and the Royal John Mine Road are also closed for public safety. For more information see http://fs.usda.gov/gila or www.nmroads.com. - Map and text via InciWeb | Photos via NMBR
Silver Fire Photos in order: HWY 152 above South Percha, Gallinas Canyon, Mimbres River Valley
Pronghorn Overland Gear unveiled their new sub-50 pound bumper for JK Wrangler at this year's Overland Expo. The marine grade aluminum constructed bumper offers 18 different configurations including removable side wings, two different winch mounting options, eight headlight/grill guard options and five recovery points. The company plans to release a matching rear bumper in the near future. MORE INFO HERE
The Thompson Ridge Fire has now burned 11,000-acres within the Valles Caldera National Preserve, nearly doubling in size since Monday. On early Wednesday morning, wildland fire crews hoped that the forecast rainfall would assist firefighting efforts. By late morning those hopes fizzled as temperatures rose and humidity levels fell. The fire moved from the steep slopes of the Redondo, where it had been burning for days, into the iconic grassland of the Valles Grande. For a short time the flames threatened old growth trees within the History Grove, century old structures and the preserve headquarters. A DC-10 air tanker, 800+ ground crew personnel, and aerial ignition helicopter crew are currently battling the blaze full force to expand the containment area beyond 5%. The fire is primarily burning in extremely rugged terrain, making it exceedingly difficult for ground crews to carry out their work. According to InciWeb, the Thompson Ridge Fire started last Friday in Sulfur Springs Canyon, at the western edge of the Valles Caldera National Preserve boundary. While the exact cause of the fire remains unconfirmed; authorities are suggesting a downed power lines sparked the blaze. - Text and Photo via NMBR (Photo: Valle Grande | Valles Caldera National Preserve | Sandoval County, NM)
Thompson Ridge Fire Infrared Map - Firing operations continued on roads on the north and east flanks of the fire. Late night/early morning fire actively moved into the Valles Caldera National Preserve's Historic District. Structure protection plans were implemented and all structures were protected. Retardant was used to check fire spread on the south side of Redondo Peak to mitigate cultural values. Spot fire north of the VC06 road was contained. Mop up and holding continued on west flank of fire. - Text and Map via InciWeb
Two years ago this week, I found a puppy burrowed beneath a dead horse on the desolate flats north of Canyon de Chelly. Luka has since traveled with me thousands of miles across New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and Colorado. Although she's often grumpy and stubborn, she follows close on the trail and is very protective. She has some health issues and pains, but she is strong and leads an active life. Her greatest pleasures include aged cheddar, chasing rabbits and laying in the stream. Read the full story "Never a Wrong Turn" HERE
Visit the NMBR Base Camp @ Overland Expo Thursday & Friday Night – After the sunset, NMBR will be hosting an informal meet and greet for overlanders, adventurists and wannabes alike. Bring a beverage and a chair. The NMBR Base Camp will be located in the lakebed camping area adjacent to the Overland Expo.
Saturday, April 20 – New Mexico Backroads and Quinones Design/Build are proud sponsors of the Sierra Vista Trail Runs- 2013. The marathon will begin at 7:30AM followed by a half-marathon and a five mile fun run. Visit the Sierra Vista Trail Runs website for more information and registration details. Good luck to all the runners!
