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BLM TAOS INCREASES FIRE RESTRICTIONS TO INCLUDE LIMITS ON TARGET SHOOTING

TAOS, N.M. – Due to increased fire danger and prolonged drought, the BLM has updated Fire Prevention Order # NMF00000-22-01 to state that, “Recreational target shooting within the BLM Taos Field Office boundary is permissible daily between sunrise and 11 a.m. Users shooting in the area must have a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher of not less than 8 ounces capacity by weight, and one round point shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches. Shooting for licensed hunting purposes is still allowed under this order.” This update is effective at 12:0l a.m., MDT, May 11, 2022, and will remain in effect until further notice. A map of the Taos Field Office jurisdiction can be found here: https://bit.ly/3PdjFdN.  

Additionally, the following restrictions outlined in an April 27 press release remain in effect:   

• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove, including in campgrounds and picnic areas. Allowed: The use of stoves fueled by pressurized liquid or gas (can be turned off) within areas cleared of flammable materials at least 10 feet in diameter. 
• Smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, developed sites and areas, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. 
• Operating a chainsaw or any other internal or external combustion engine without a USDA or SAE approved spark arrester properly installed and working, a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher of not less than 8 ounces capacity by weight, and one round point shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches. 
• Possessing or using a motor vehicle off roads, except routes in areas open to OHV travel and except when parking in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the roadway. 
• Any “hot work” conducted by authorized contractors or permittees for, by or on BLM will follow permit stipulations provided by the BLM. 

The purpose of this order is for the protection of public health and safety by minimizing chances for wildfire starts. Abundant dry fuels, high fire danger, and worsening fire conditions, has prompted this action. To view this order, visit https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/docs/2022-05/fire-restrictions-updated-farmington-district-office-220510.pdf.  

The use of exploding targets and fireworks is prohibited on all BLM-managed lands in New Mexico by statewide order. For more information on this statewide order, visit  https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/docs/2022-01/Fire-Prevention-Order-NM910-22-01-final-508.pdf. 

Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both. Restitution for total costs of fire suppression or damage will be borne by the violator. 

The BLM appreciates the public’s cooperation in helping to minimize the number of human-caused wildfires. For more information, please contact the BLM Farmington District Office at 505-564-7600 or the BLM NM Fire Restrictions site.  Additional fire restrictions information can be found at www.nmfireinfo.com.