U.S. Forest Service to close areas of South Fork burn scar for reseeding efforts

RUIDOSO, N.M. (KRQE) – The U.S. Forest Service said they are starting to reseed areas in the Lincoln National Forest affected by the South Fork Fire. The lightning-caused fire forced the evacuation of the village of Ruidoso this summer. In all, the fire burned more than 17,000 acres.

Areas of the Smokey Bear Ranger District will be closed for reseeding and mulching projects in the burn scar. The Forest Service said the restoration efforts will help prevent erosion, protect water quality, and promote natural regeneration of the forest. Forest officials expect the area to reopen in mid-November.

Closures in the area include:

• Northern Boundary: At the junction of NM Road 532, Forest Service boundary and Mescalero Apache Reservation lands, extending approximately 2 miles east to the Forest Service Boundary
• Eastern Boundary: Follows the Eastern Forest Service Boundary south for approximately 4 miles to Rio Ruidoso
• Southern Boundary: Follows Rio Ruidoso west for approximately 2 miles to the Forest Service boundary adjacent to Mescalero Apache Tribal lands
• Western Boundary: Follows the boundary line between the Forest Service and Mescalero Apache Tribal lands north for approximately 2 miles.

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