Santa Fe National Forest Lifts Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

By SFNF

The Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) will lift campfire and smoking restrictions effective 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020, based on decreasing fire danger.

The forest implemented Stage 1 fire restrictions on Oct. 23 to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire during extreme drought conditions, historically low fuel moisture levels and high fire danger. The Carson National Forest and four ranger districts on the Cibola National Forest entered Stage 1 fire restrictions at the same time, an indication of the widespread risk of unseasonal wildfires across northern New Mexico. The Carson National Forestexpects to lift restrictions on Thursday as well. Check the Cibola National Forest website for updates on the status of its fire restrictions.

Forest managers use several criteria to determine when to lift fire restrictions, including current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, fire activity levels and available firefighting resources. Fire danger on the SFNF is currently posted as low.

Although Stage I restrictions on campfires and smoking will be lifted, forest managers urge visitors to continue to use caution around campfires and other potential ignition sources by following campfire safety procedures. Never leave your campsite until the fire is completely extinguished and cold to the touch. Violators of regulations that prohibit abandoning a campfire are subject to a fine and/or imprisonment. If an abandoned campfire causes a wildfire, violators can also be held responsible for fire suppression costs.

The order terminating Stage 1 fire restrictions is posted on the SFNF website. Stay up to date on SFNF news by checking the SFNF website and following us on Facebook and Twitter.