Aerial Reseeding and Mulching Underway on the Lincoln National Forest

by Mescalero Apache Tribe | October 1, 2024 11:08 am

Project focusing on restoration efforts in aftermath of South Fork Fire

ALAMOGORDO, New Mexico, September 30, 2024 – The Lincoln National Forest has issued an area closure order on the Smokey Bear Ranger District during aerial seeding and mulching operations planned for the lands affected by the South Fork fire.

This order is in effect from September 30, 2024, at 12:01 a.m. until November 15, 2024, at 12:01 p.m., unless rescinded earlier.

These restoration efforts are crucial for preventing erosion, protecting water quality, and promoting the natural regeneration of the forest. By seeding the affected areas with native plants and applying mulch to retain moisture, the Forest Service is working to restore the ecosystem and prevent further damage.
The area closure will apply to the following boundaries:

Northern Boundary: Begins 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.

A map and detailed description of the closure can be found on our website’s alerts and closure page: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/lincoln/alerts-notices

This closure order is necessary to protect public safety from potential hazards associated with aerial seeding and mulching activities aimed at restoring the lands impacted by the South Fork fire.

We will continue to provide updates on the status of this project.

24-09-27 Seeding Closure 6 LNF (OGC rev)_signedDownload[1]

Endnotes:

Download: https://mescaleroapachetribe.com/wp-content/uploads/24-09-27-Seeding-Closure-6-LNF-OGC-rev_signed.pdf

Source URL: https://mescaleroapachetribe.com/22238/aerial-reseeding-and-mulching-underway-on-the-lincoln-national-forest/