Archive for August 1, 2009
New Addition to NM-Central.com
by John Weckerle
As requested, we are providing some photos of the newest resident at NM-Central.com headquarters. Meet Wilson, who is now nine weeks old and has written his first symphony. More pictures behind the cut.
Forest Service Closures: Capilla, New Canyon, and Tajique Campgrounds
Announcement from Arlene Perea at the Mountainair Ranger District:
The Mountainair Ranger District would like to remind all visitors that although many roads have been reopened throughout the district, Forest Road #245 from New Canyon Campground to Capilla Peak continues to be closed. This is due to the high volume of burned hazard trees remaining along the road. Crews have been and continue to work on cutting these trees; however they pose a serious threat to any traffic on the road. This includes foot traffic. Along with the continued closure of Forest Road #245, New Canyon and Capilla Campgrounds are also closed due to the hazard trees as well as the possibility of flash flooding through the New Canyon Campground. Tajique Campground on the North end of the district also continues to be closed due to the possibility of flash flooding. With the forest reopening, we are seeing many hikers within these areas. Hikers are asked to use the adjacent trail (New Canyon Trail) to access this portion of the forest, but no camping is allowed in Capilla or New Canyon campgrounds. District Ranger Karen Lessard said “These areas continue to be post-fire work zones so we ask that visitors stay away from these areas for your own safety as well as the safety of our crews.”
The Mountainair Ranger District has also received a high volume of calls regarding the availability of fire wood cutting areas. We currently have 3 wood cutting areas open, however all permits have been sold for these areas. Our crews are working diligently to open another area soon. To find out the availability of permits, please call the Mountainair Ranger District at 505-847-2990 before visiting to buy a permit.