Lincoln National Forest plans prescribed pile burning on the Smokey Bear Ranger District from January 29 through February 1, pending favorable weather and approvals. The work will reduce hazardous fuels near Ruidoso, including areas around the Ruidoso Lookout Tower and McBride Fire Scar. Temporary closures and smoke impacts are possible.

Lincoln National Forest crews are continuing prescribed fire work and planning additional winter burns to reduce hazardous fuels and protect nearby communities, including Ruidoso. Recent treatments have already improved wildfire resilience, with additional Smokey Bear Ranger District projects planned later this month, pending weather and approvals.

Prescribed pile burns are planned in the Smokey Bear Ranger District Dec. 2–12, weather permitting, including a 10-acre treatment near the Ruidoso Lookout Tower. Temporary closures and smoke may affect Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, Alto, and Hondo Valley. Drivers should use caution. Crews will monitor the area until all hot spots are fully secured.

The Lincoln National Forest will conduct prescribed pile burns near the Ruidoso Lookout Tower December 2–12, 2025, pending favorable conditions. The 10-acre operation reduces hazardous fuels and wildfire risk. Temporary closures and smoke may affect nearby communities. Drivers should use caution. Updates available on the forest website and social media.

Effective June 5, the fire danger rating across all three districts of Lincoln National Forest has been lowered from “very high” to “high.” Stage 2 Fire Restrictions remain in effect. Visitors are urged to stay alert and follow all safety guidelines. Details: www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln

Lincoln National Forest will conduct a prescribed burn on the Sacramento Ranger District from Dec. 3-6, 2024, targeting 350 acres in the 16 Springs Project Area. The operation aims to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health. Smoke may affect nearby areas, including Mayhill and Cloudcroft. Plans are weather-dependent.