Silver City, NM, June 18, 2025—All offices of the Gila National Forest will be closed Thursday, June 19 in honor of the Juneteenth National Independence Day holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Normal business hours will resume Friday, June 20 at offices in Quemado, Reserve, Glenwood, Mimbres, Truth or Consequences, and Silver City.
If you're heading out for a long weekend, remember that Stage 2 fire restrictions are in effect on the entire Gila National Forest, prohibiting the use of fire, including campfire, stove fire, and charcoal. Use of propane stove with a shutoff valve is allowed when used within a 6-foot diameter that is cleared of surrounding or overhanging vegetation or flammable material. Smoking is prohibited except within a vehicle, trailer, or building, at a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or has been cleared of all flammable materials. Use of chainsaws, generators, and other equipment powered by internal combustion engine is prohibited between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Closures exist on New Mexico Highways 15, 35, 61, and 152 due to the Trout Fire, and on New Mexico Highway 163 due to the Buck Fire. Forest Road 141 is closed due to replacement of the South Fork Negrito Creek Bridge. Visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/gila for information and updates.
