Ruidoso wildfire now 50% contained; NM Highway 48 reopens
Village of Ruidoso
Smoke and flames can be seen from a grass fire burning near Ruidoso.
UPDATE, June 10: RUIDOSO, New Mexico As of Wednesday morning, officials said the Ball Field Fire burning near Ruidoso was 50% contained and holding at 25 acres. In addition, NM Highway 48 has reopened in both directions.
In a statement, the Ruidoso Fire Department said firefighters kept the wildfire within the containment lines overnight and into the morning. The wind was an issue blowing embers and causing some slop-over, however everything is still burning on the interior of the containment lines at this time, the morning update from RFD said.
The fire led to the closure of several trails and recreation areas in the park, but on Tuesday Park Service officials announced some areas were reopened.
The fire led to the closure of several trails and recreation areas in the park, but on Tuesday Park Service officials announced some areas were reopened.
Monjeau Fire contained at two acres
The fire is being monitored by U.S. Forest Service personnel and by Lincoln County resources.
The cause of ignition was unknown.
It was first spotted near the Sierra Vista area west of Highway 48 around 8:15 p.m. Fire crews found the fire consuming timber, grass and brush.
No structures were reported in danger. Smoke from the fire may be visible from the Sierra Vista area and along Monjeau Road.
A second fire, Harrison Fire, was contained to a single acre May 17 as well.
The fire was detected in the Capitan Mountains wilderness area in Kyle Harrison Canyon.