Lincoln National Forest issues safety reminders for coming recreation season

ALAMOGORDO — With the weather warming, it is a wonderful time of year to enjoy the natural treasures that the Lincoln National Forest and surrounding communities have to offer. It is important that visitors and community members alike remember to keep safety as their top priority when enjoying the Forest.
Specifically, Forest visitors are reminded to review current and future weather conditions when planning their trip. When on the Forest, always be aware of your surroundings and changing conditions. For example, windy conditions in and around the Forest can create hazardous situations due to falling live and dead trees and branches. It is not uncommon for the area to experience 50-70 mile per hour wind gusts so visitors must remain vigilant.

In addition to springtime winds, the Lincoln National Forest still has a lot of snow and there are associated safety risks when driving, horseback riding, using ATVs, or hiking. The forest has experienced a wetter than normal winter compared to the last 10 years. Many of the forest roads are still snow packed, wet, and extremely muddy. Many roads are impassable, especially in the higher elevations.

The threat of wildfire throughout southeastern New Mexico also remains a constant danger as warm temperatures and high winds combine. Be wary of the abundance of dry, fine fire fuels. Sparks can start a fire when you pull off on the side of the road to take a picture. Also, if you are camping, clear your campsite area at least three feet in diameter to ensure safe campfire use. Since most wildfires in New Mexico are human-caused, Jacqueline Buchanan, Lincoln National Forest Supervisor said, "I would ask visitors to respect all natural resources by being very careful with fire. Smokey Bear's message, "Only You Can Prevent Wildfire" is especially applicable during any fire conditions. In addition, this also means, we need everyone's help to ensure our forest continues to be free of fire here in southern New Mexico.

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Source: http://www.currentargus.com/carlsbad-community/ci_14840787

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