NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – A project designated to deal with downed trees has been approved, the U.S. Forest Service said. The work will take place near Red River and Pot Creek.
Years ago, a “severe windstorm” left downed trees north, south, and east of Red River and off Forest Roads 439 and 442.
“On Dec. 15, 2021, a snow squall impacted the area, downing pockets of trees, primarily spruce-fir, on at least tens of thousands of acres across the Questa and Camino Real ranger districts. Staff and partner groups immediately evaluated conditions and began clearing roads and trails the next spring,” states a release from the U.S. Forest Service.
Carson National Forest Supervisor James Duran approved a plan, dubbed the “Windstorm Blowdown Project,” to clear the trees. It takes place on 2,881 acres, will reduce wildfire severity, and remove threatening trees.
If chainsaws or logging equipment is utilized, the wood will be available for personal fuelwood permit holders or commercial uses. In areas that are hard to reach with vehicles, crews may use burn piles.
Some dead trees will remain after the project, but this is to help the soil and wildlife.
