Fire restrictions lifted

Freedom New Mexico

The New Mexico State Forestry Division has lifted bans on smoking, fireworks, campfires and open fires for all counties, according to a press release distributed by the agency Friday.

The statewide bans were imposed in April and June.

“Now that rainfall has returned and the fire danger has diminished, we feel the restrictions imposed earlier this year can be lifted,” said New Mexico State Forester Tony Delfin.

The restrictions were imposed on all non-municipal, non-federal and non-tribal lands across New Mexico due to extreme fire danger.

The State Forestry Division will continue to monitor fire danger across the state and may implement restrictions again, if conditions worsen, according to the press release.

Dry conditions still exist across many parts of the state and New Mexico State Forestry is urging all state residents and visitors to continue to be cautious with any use of fire.

Since last July, New Mexico State Forestry has reported 1,263 fires, which have burned more than 1 million acres.

Some New Mexico State Parks will continue to impose park-specific restrictions and/or closures. For more information, residents can call 877-NMPARKS or visit www.nmparks.com

For more information: www.nmforestry.com