Silver City, NM; October 27, 2011 A group of Forest Service firefighters, from the Quemado and Wilderness Ranger Districts on the Gila National Forest, have completed the cutting down of hazard trees along U.S. Highway 180 west of Luna, NM. The hazard trees are a result of the Wallow Fire that burned this past summer. After a wildfire, burned trees start to deteriorate and decay and can easily fall in public use areas such as roads, campgrounds, and trails especially during wind events or heavy snowstorms.
Over the next few weeks, firefighters will be cutting the downed hazard trees that are 9" or less in diameter, and stacking the wood for public fuelwood use. Permits are required for the removal of fuelwood and can be obtained at any Ranger District office or at the Supervisor's Office in Silver City. Cost is $10.00 per cord with a 2 cord minimum. The public is advised that the cutting of standing trees and downed trees within the burned area marked with blue paint are NOT to be cut or removed. These marked trees will be offered for commercial use ONLY!
Hazard trees are identified by the severity of their burn and their relationship to public use areas. Hazard tree removal is a standard part of fire recovery that focuses on public safety.
Further information may be obtained by contacting Fuels Specialist Tim Hendricks at the Quemado Ranger District at 575.773.4678.
