New Mexico’s energy and natural resources agency is putting its support behind legislation that it says would clear the way for more prescribed fires as the state deals with climate change. The measure would clarify liability for private landowners who conduct prescribed burns and create a certification program for conducting such burns safely. Officials with the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department say that would make it easier and more affordable for landowners to get insurance. Supporters say similar legislation in other states has resulted in increased prescribed burning – one of the main tools used by state and federal land managers to clear out dead and overgrown vegetation as a way to reduce the threat of more severe wildfires.