BLM continues fire restrictions in southern New Mexico

LAS CRUCES - The Bureau of Land Management Las Cruces District implemented fire restrictions on June 7 in order to reduce the risk of wildfire on public land in Doña Ana, Otero, Luna, Sierra, Grant and Hidalgo counties. When visiting public lands, visitors needs to be aware of the prohibited acts in the fire restrictions, which will remain in effect until further notice.

Prohibited acts in the restrictions include:

• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove.  The use of stoves fueled by pressurized liquid or gas (can be turned off) within areas cleared of flammable materials at least 10 feet in diameter is allowed.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, developed sites and areas or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
• Discharging, using or possessing fireworks.

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 the 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, according to the BLM.

The BLM greatly appreciates the public’s cooperation in helping to minimize the number of human-caused wildfires. For information, contact the BLM Las Cruces Office at 575-525-4300 or visit www.nmfireinfo.com.

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