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Fire

InciWeb: Current Fire Incidents

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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

hand signaling to stop - don't use fire in the forest

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. 

(USDA Forest Service photo)

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.

(USDA Forest Service Photo)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Slide Campground Prescribed Pile Burn

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 NameRanger DistrictLocationTreatment TypeTreatment DatesTreatment Acres
Aspen & Black Bear Campground PilesSacramento Ranger DistrictSoutheast of CloudcroftPrescribed Pile BurnPostponed22
Little Eagle Prescribed Pile BurnSmokey Bear Ranger DistrictVilla Madonna Prescribed Pile BurnPostponed45
Wofford Prescribed Pile BurnSacramento Ranger DistrictWofford Lookout TowerPrescribed Pile BurnPostponed11

InProgress Prescribed Burn Operations

Project NameRanger DistrictLocationTreatment TypeTreatment DatesTreatment Acres
      

Completed Prescribed Burn Operations

Project NameRanger DistrictLocationTreatment TypeTreatment DatesTreatment Acres
Smokey Bear Admin PilesSmokey Bear Ranger DistrictSmokey Bear Ranger District OfficePrescribed Pile BurnOct. 21 - 22, 20252
James Ridge/Spud Patch Canyon PilesSacramento Ranger DistrictJames Ridge, 16 Springs Canyon, Spud Patch CanyonPrescribed Pile BurnOct. 23-26, 202581
Sacramento Administration Site PilesSacramento Ranger DistrictSacramento Administration SitePrescribed Pile BurnOct. 23-26, 202532
16 Springs Prescribed BurnSacramento Ranger DistrictCarr Gap RoadPrescribed BurnNov 7-14, 2025882
Slide Campground PilesSacramento Ranger DistrictSouth of CloudcroftPrescribed Pile BurnNov 20-24, 2025TBA
16 Springs Block 1Sacramento Ranger DistrictCarr Gap Road(607)Prescribed BurnDec. 11 - Dec. 16, 2025TBA
McBride Prescribed Pile BurnSmokey Bear Ranger DistrictMcBride Fire Scar near Ruidoso HSPrescribed Pile BurnJan. 29-Feb 1, 202610
Slash PitSacramento Ranger DistrictEast of CloudcroftSlash Pit Prescribed BurnFeb 7 - Feb 8, 2026. 1
Ruidoso Lookout Tower PilesSmokey Bear Ranger DistrictRuidoso Lookout TowerPrescribed Pile BurnFeb. 10 - Feb. 13, 202610
16 Springs Block 2Sacramento Ranger DistrictCarr Gap RoadPrescribed BurnFeb. 27- March 7, 202624

Fire Information

Example of a lightning strike tree

Directory of New Mexico and Southwestern Region fire information and resources. Includes state and interagency fire information. Be prepared and stay informed. 

Fire Prevention

homeowner rakes debris in yard

This section includes preventive steps you can take to protect people, pets and property during the fire season and year-round.

Fire Careers

Spud Patch Canyon Prescribed Burn Test Ignition

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. 

 

Last updated March 26, 2026