The Cuervito Fire continues to burn in the Santa Fe National Forest and is spreading with low intensity. The lightning-caused fire started on May 9 and is located about nine miles east of Pecos and has burned about 1,000 acres as of Friday, May 14.
According to the officials with the Santa Fe National Forest, on Sunday, May 16 aerial ignitions took place in the interior of the fire which helped to clear woody debris on the forest floor. Hand ignitions continued on the fire’s north end.
The Cuervito Fire is being managed in order to reduce forest debris which will help promote a healthier forest and will also reduce the risk for future high-severity wildfire.
Surrounding communities may see an increase in visible smoke.