Fire
InciWeb: Current Fire Incidents
Leveraging advanced monitoring, strategic planning, and efficient project execution, our dedicated team of highly trained professionals is committed to protecting the forest's lands, resources, and surrounding communities. Our fire management program is focused on ensuring a healthy forest for generations to come.
Current Fire Restrictions
Fire managers will enact temporary fire restrictions at times of heightened fire danger to complement regional orders and national prohibitions.
FAQ
Lincoln National Forest Stage 1 Restrictions Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why are we going into Fire Restrictions at all?
Answer: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are put in place when hot, dry, or windy conditions increase the risk of wildfires. These restrictions help reduce accidental human caused ignitions and protect the community, firefighters, and natural resources.
Question: Does a rock ring count as a permanent Forest Service approved fire pit?
Answer: No. A rock ring is not a permitted structure in dispersed camping areas, developed campgrounds or picnic areas. You must use a Forest Service-provided metal fire ring or metal grill which will be in developed areas only.
Forest Service installed metal fire ring permitted for use during Stage 1 Fire Restrictions.
A hand built rock ring on Forest System Lands is not a Forest Service-provided fire ring and is not permitted during Stage 1 Fire Restrictions.
Question: Can I bring my own metal fire pit to the Forest?
Answer:
- If your metal fire pit is gas-powered: Yes. Devices that run only on liquid petroleum or LPG and can be turned on and off are allowed. They must be used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within three feet around and above the device.
- If your metal fire pit is not gas-powered: No. Wood‑burning, pellet, or charcoal fire rings are not allowed under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. You must use a Forest Service installed fire pit.
Question: Are gas grills allowed?
Answer: Yes, using a device solely fueled by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off. Such devices can only be used in an area that is barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within three (3) feet of the device.
Question: Can I grill outside at my home?
Answer: Check with your local Municipality or County for guidance on their specific restrictions, this order only applies to USFS lands within the Lincoln National Forest.
Question: Why are we not closing the Forest?
Answer: The forest is not being closed because current conditions do not yet meet the thresholds for a full closure. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions reduce accidental human caused wildfires while still allowing the public to safely enjoy the forest. Closures are only used when fire danger becomes "extreme" and other restrictions are no longer enough to protect public safety and resources.
Question: Can I still smoke?
Answer: Yes, smoking is permitted on Forest Service Lands only if it is done safely. You must smoke in an area with a 3‑foot diameter that is completely cleared of flammable materials such as grass, leaves, or vegetation. Smoking is also allowed inside an enclosed vehicle, building or developed recreation site.
Question: What should I do if I see someone with a fire?
Answer: Please report any illegal, escaped, or abandoned campfire to the local sheriff’s office. Our dispatch centers work together to get the right resources on scene quickly. Reporting a campfire might feel intimidating, but taking action is critical when time is of the essence.
Current Prescribed Fire Operations
Looking for more information about the Lincoln National Forests Prescribed Fire Operations? Check out our Alerts and Updates page for the most updated information.
Planned Prescribed Burn Operations
| Project Name | Ranger District | Location | Treatment Type | Treatment Dates | Treatment Acres |
| Aspen & Black Bear Campground Piles | Sacramento Ranger District | Southeast of Cloudcroft | Prescribed Pile Burn | Postponed | 22 |
| Little Eagle Prescribed Pile Burn | Smokey Bear Ranger District | Villa Madonna | Prescribed Pile Burn | Postponed | 45 |
| Wofford Prescribed Pile Burn | Sacramento Ranger District | Wofford Lookout Tower | Prescribed Pile Burn | Postponed | 11 |
InProgress Prescribed Burn Operations
| Project Name | Ranger District | Location | Treatment Type | Treatment Dates | Treatment Acres |
Completed Prescribed Burn Operations
| Project Name | Ranger District | Location | Treatment Type | Treatment Dates | Treatment Acres |
| Smokey Bear Admin Piles | Smokey Bear Ranger District | Smokey Bear Ranger District Office | Prescribed Pile Burn | Oct. 21 - 22, 2025 | 2 |
| James Ridge/Spud Patch Canyon Piles | Sacramento Ranger District | James Ridge, 16 Springs Canyon, Spud Patch Canyon | Prescribed Pile Burn | Oct. 23-26, 2025 | 81 |
| Sacramento Administration Site Piles | Sacramento Ranger District | Sacramento Administration Site | Prescribed Pile Burn | Oct. 23-26, 2025 | 32 |
| 16 Springs Prescribed Burn | Sacramento Ranger District | Carr Gap Road | Prescribed Burn | Nov 7-14, 2025 | 882 |
| Slide Campground Piles | Sacramento Ranger District | South of Cloudcroft | Prescribed Pile Burn | Nov 20-24, 2025 | TBA |
| 16 Springs Block 1 | Sacramento Ranger District | Carr Gap Road(607) | Prescribed Burn | Dec. 11 - Dec. 16, 2025 | TBA |
| McBride Prescribed Pile Burn | Smokey Bear Ranger District | McBride Fire Scar near Ruidoso HS | Prescribed Pile Burn | Jan. 29-Feb 1, 2026 | 10 |
| Slash Pit | Sacramento Ranger District | East of Cloudcroft | Slash Pit Prescribed Burn | Feb 7 - Feb 8, 2026. | 1 |
| Ruidoso Lookout Tower Piles | Smokey Bear Ranger District | Ruidoso Lookout Tower | Prescribed Pile Burn | Feb. 10 - Feb. 13, 2026 | 10 |
| 16 Springs Block 2 | Sacramento Ranger District | Carr Gap Road | Prescribed Burn | Feb. 27- March 7, 2026 | 24 |
Fire Information
Directory of New Mexico and Southwestern Region fire information and resources. Includes state and interagency fire information. Be prepared and stay informed.
Fire Prevention
This section includes preventive steps you can take to protect people, pets and property during the fire season and year-round.
Fire Careers
The USDA Forest Service, Southwestern Region will soon be hiring permanent fire and aviation management positions. Help protect our nation's resources for generations to come! Learn about upcoming events and training.
Current Fire Hire Opportunities
When opportunities arise, we will share them here.