SILVER CITY, NM, Dec. 16, 2024 –As we prepare to wrap up 2024 and embark on a new year the Gila National Forest wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas and happy New Year! As a reminder, all Gila National Forest offices will be closed in observance of Christmas on Wednesday, December 25, and New Year's Day on Wednesday, January 1.
"With 2024 solidly in the rearview mirror, we on the Gila have a lot to reflect on and celebrate, while we turn toward the challenges ahead in 2025," said Gila National Forest Supervisor Camille Howes. "During our last trip around the sun, we honored a century of the Gila Wilderness, we made great progress on restoring Willow Creek, and maintained or restored more than 100 miles of trail affected by fire. But most importantly, we interacted and collaborated with our communities in our shared care for the forest. I wish you and yours a very warm and happy holiday season."
Gila National Forest offices will be closed Dec. 25 and January 1. With limited staffing and employees on leave, services may be limited. It's a good time of year to call ahead to your local office, to ensure the services you need will be available when you visit. To reach the Silver City Ranger District in Silver City, call 575-388-8201; the Wilderness Ranger District in Mimbres: 575-536-2250; the Black Range Ranger District in Truth or Consequences: 575-894-6677: the Glenwood Ranger District in Glenwood: 575-539-2481; Reserve Ranger District in Reserve: 575-533-6232, and Quemado Ranger District in Quemado: 575-773-4678.
Christmas tree permits are available now through the end of the year from any of our offices or online at Gila National Forest Christmas Tree Permit in New Mexico - Recreation.gov. Piñon pine permits are free, or a permit for any species of tree is only $5, or free for 4th grade Every Kid Outdoors passholders. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211 or
