\PUBLIC ACCESS RESTORED
QUEMADO, NM, February 20, 2025 – The Gila National Forest, Quemado Ranger District has reopened Baca community slash disposal site following burning of the debris starting in late January.
"The Baca community slash disposal site is used all year long in partnership with the Catron County Firewise program – a program that helps remove hazardous fuels and vegetation on and adjacent to private lands," said Quemado District Ranger, Randall Chavez.
An estimated 50,000 cubic feet of slash material (enough to fill a basketball court packed to the height of the baskets) was burned on the 5-acre site northeast of Quemado, New Mexico. Ashes have cooled and the site is now safe for public entry and use for slash disposal. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211 or