Minerals and Natural Resources Cabinet Secretary Ken McQueen reinforced the importance of Wildfire Awareness Week, which in New Mexico started on April 16 and continues through April 22. Speaking at the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, Secretary McQueen called upon New Mexicans to continue to be vigilant and do their part to help prevent wildfires in the Land of Enchantment.
"New Mexicans are faced with the constant threat of wildfire and the devastation it carries to our lives, our properties, and our natural resources," states Governor Martinez's official proclamation of Wildfire Awareness Week 2017. "I urge all New Mexicans to stand together and remember, "Wildfire doesn't have to be a disaster. Little things you do now will make a big difference", said Secretary McQueen.
Since January 1, 2017, New Mexico has had 126 wildfires burn more than 12,000 acres on state and privately owned land. Last year at this same time, 140 fires burned approximately 46,000 acres.