NEWS
Jemez closures extended due to wildfire
Some areas reopened as other closures for McCauley Springs Fire pushed to mid-August
Some parts of the Jemez have reopened, while other closure orders have been extended following a wildfire that burned hundreds of acres in the area.
In a news release Wednesday, officials with the Santa Fe National Forest said the temporary closure 鈥� initially set to expire July 11 鈥� has been pushed to Aug. 11 鈥渦nless rescinded.鈥�
Several recreation areas closed due to the McCauley Springs Fire have reopened, including La Cueva and Las Conchas day use areas, Dark Canyon, Rincon, Spence Hot Springs, East Fork Trailhead and Redondo Campground, according to the release.
Areas that remain closed under the new order include Battleship Rock, Jemez Falls campground, group area and trailhead, San Diego Overlook and the East Fork Trail from Battleship Rock to N.M. 4.
鈥淭he order prohibits entering the designated closure area, as well as traveling on any roads or trails within it, to protect public health and safety following firefighting operations,鈥� the release states.
The McCauley Springs Fire, which sparked June 24, has burned more than 700 acres and is 93% contained, according to the release. The cause of the fire has not been determined.
The Forest Service said violating the closure order is punishable by fines up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations 鈥渁nd/or up to six months imprisonment.鈥�
The Santa Fe National Forest last month issued Stage 2 fire restrictions, prohibiting campfires and smoking until Sept. 30.
Anyone seeking more information on the closure order should call the Jemez Ranger District in Jemez Springs at 575-829-3535 or the Santa Fe National Forest Supervisor鈥檚 Office in Santa Fe at 505-438-5300.
