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Albuquerque, N.M. – Due to increased fire danger and prolonged drought, the BLM’s Albuquerque District has updated Fire Prevention Order # NMA00000-22-01 and suspended sale of all fuelwood permits. The updated fire prevention order stipulates that cutting or grinding metal, or using a welder, either arc or gas, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame (hot work) is prohibited. In addition, between the hours of 11 a.m. and 10 p.m., operating any motorized equipment with internal or external combustion engines including, but not limited to chainsaws is prohibited. For authorized contractors or permittees, the hour restrictions also apply, in addition to special stipulations related to “hot work” and other operations.   

This order is effective at 12:0l a.m., MDT, May 27, and will remain in effect until further notice. A jurisdictional map of the Albuquerque District’s Rio Puerco and Socorro Field Offices can be found here: https://bit.ly/3PdjFdN.

Additionally, the following restrictions outlined in an April 29 press release remain in effect:   

1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove, including in campgrounds and picnic areas. Allowed: The use of stoves fueled by pressurized liquid or gas (can be turned off) within areas cleared of flammable materials at least 10 feet in diameter.
2. Smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, developed sites and areas, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
3. Cutting or grinding metal, or using a welder, either arc or gas, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame (hot work).
4. Operating any motorized equipment with internal or external combustion engines including but not limited to chainsaws between the hours of 11:00 AM and 10:00 PM.  All equipment shall be equipped with a U.S. Department of Agriculture or Society of Automotive Engineers  approved spark arrester properly installed and working, a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher of not less than 8 ounces capacity by weight, and one round point shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches. 
5. Possessing or using a motor vehicle off roads, except when parking in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the roadway. Allowed: Off road use in established OHV areas.
6. The use of any aerial luminaries, sky lanterns, wish lanterns, balloons or other items that are smoldering or have open flame attached for propulsion.
7. Any “hot work” conducted by authorized contractors or permittees for, by or on BLM administered lands will follow permit stipulations provided by the BLM.

Fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited on all BLM lands in New Mexico under Fire Prevention Order #NM910-22-01. All BLM NM Fire Prevention Orders can be found at: https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/regional-info/new-mexico/fire-restrictions.

Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 months.  As summer continues, additional restrictions or closures may be necessary; check for updates at www.nmfireinfo.com. For more information, please contact the BLM Albuquerque District Office at 505-761-8700.