Forest officials are urging all visitors and residents to be extra vigilant and adhere strictly to the following regulations within the Santa Fe National Forest:
Santa Fe, NM – Tuesday, April 29, 2025 – Due to increasing fire danger, fueled by dry conditions and rising temperatures, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are now in effect for the Santa Fe National Forest. In addition, Fenton Lake State Park is currently under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions. These restrictions aim to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect the forest’s valuable resources and surrounding communities, as well as the unique environment of Fenton Lake.
Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, the following are prohibited:
- Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire except within designated recreation sites where metal fire rings or stoves are provided. This includes charcoal fires.
- Smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
- Operating a chainsaw or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
- Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame, except by permit with specific fire prevention measures in place.
- Using explosives (blasting, fireworks, or other pyrotechnic devices) is always prohibited on National Forest lands.
The following are permitted under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in the Santa Fe National Forest:
- Using petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices, provided such devices are non-flammable and are used in areas cleared of flammable materials within three feet of the device.
- Smoking within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
- Operating chainsaws or other internal combustion engines outside the restricted hours of 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., provided the operator has a functioning spark arrester properly installed and maintains a fire extinguisher of at least 8 ounces capacity and a shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches readily available for use.
Important Note: Fenton Lake State Park – Stage 2 Fire Restrictions
Visitors to Fenton Lake State Park need to be aware that Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are currently in effect. Under Stage 2, building, maintaining, attending, or using any type of fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove is prohibited. The use of petroleum or LPG-fueled stoves and smoking are also restricted to enclosed vehicles or buildings. Please refer to the relevant authorities for the full details of Stage 2 restrictions at Fenton Lake State Park.
Why These Restrictions?
The decision to implement Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in the Santa Fe National Forest and Stage 2 at Fenton Lake State Park is based on a combination of factors, including current and predicted weather conditions, fuel moisture levels, and the potential for increased fire activity in these specific areas.
What You Can Do to Help:
Even with these restrictions in place, it’s crucial for everyone to practice responsible fire safety:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to dry vegetation and windy conditions.
- Never leave any heat source unattended: This includes stoves and smoking materials.
- Dispose of cigarettes properly: Ensure butts are completely extinguished and never throw them on the ground.
- Check your vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and dragging chains or other metal parts are secured to prevent sparks.
- Carry water: Be prepared to extinguish any small fire that may start.
Stay Informed:
These restrictions will remain in effect until further notice. Officials will continue to monitor conditions and will adjust restrictions as necessary. For the latest information on fire restrictions and fire activity in the Santa Fe National Forest and Fenton Lake State Park, please visit the official websites and information channels of the relevant authorities.
Your cooperation is essential in protecting these valuable areas. Please be responsible and help prevent wildfires.
