BLM issues temporary public land closure in Cibola County for Bluewater Fire
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Albuquerque, N.M. - The Bureau of Land Management, in conjunction with the Cibola National Forest, is temporarily closing public lands in Cibola County within the area of the Bluewater Fire to all unauthorized entry, effective immediately. This closure will remain in effect until the Bluewater Fire is declared controlled. This closure affects public lands within the Bluewater Creek Area of Critical Environmental Concern, about 9 miles northwest of Milan, NM, and adjacent public lands administered by the BLM.
This emergency closure is necessary to ensure public safety, land health and resource integrity during firefighting activities and initial suppression rehabilitation efforts. The ongoing suppression and restoration activities associated with the fire preclude safe public access. The areas affected by this closure order will be posted with appropriate signs at main access points.
Violations by a member of the public are subject to punishment by a fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment of not more than 12 months, or both.
Information regarding this closure order may be obtained by visiting nmfireinfo.com or by calling BLM Albuquerque District Fire Management Officer Todd Richards at 505-259-8487.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.