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The Bureau of Land Management Las Cruces District is implementing fire restrictions on May 2, 2022, to reduce the risk of wildfire on public lands in Doña Ana, Otero, Luna, Sierra, Grant and Hidalgo counties. When visiting public lands, visitors need to be aware of the prohibited acts in the fire restrictions, which will remain in effect until further notice.
Prohibited acts include:
turned off) within areas cleared of flammable materials at least 10 feet in diameter
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 and fireworks is already prohibited on all BLM lands in New Mexico by statewide order annually. All BLM New Mexico prevention orders can be found here: https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/regional-info/new-mexico/fire-restrictions.
Exemptions to the restrictions include: Any federal, state, local and/or military employee acting within the scope of their duties; members of any rescue or firefighting force performing official duty; and persons, agencies, municipalities or companies with a written permit that specifically authorizes the otherwise prohibited act. An exemption does not absolve an individual or organization from liability or responsibility for any fire started by an exempted activity.
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 Las Cruces District Office at 575-525-4300 or the BLM NM Fire Restrictions site. Additional fire restrictions information can be found at www.nmfireinfo.com.