Pearce: Common Sense Forest Management Needed

Luna, NM (June 27, 2011) Congressman Steve Pearce met with residents, firefighters and local officials in the Catron County area on Saturday to discuss the Wallow Fire, which recently forced the evacuation of Luna, New Mexico. “I am truly thankful for the thousands of firefighters who saved the lives and property of the people in harm’s way,” said Pearce. “I saw the magnitude of this fire firsthand, and its damage is overwhelming. I appreciate the heroic efforts of the crews on the front lines.” Mr. Pearce met with Catron County Manager Bill Aymar, Catron County Sheriff Shawn Menges, an official with the U.S. Forest Service, area ranchers, and others that have been involved since the fire broke out on May 29 in Arizona and eventually spread into New Mexico.

Steve Pearce

“The severity of this fire underscores the need for responsible, proactive forest management” said Pearce. “It is time for the federal government to implement common-sense thinning and management practices. Otherwise, we will only see more of these senseless, catastrophic fires. Known as the largest forest fire in the history of Arizona, the Wallow Fire has now burned approximately 537,220 acres, with 15,384 in New Mexico. At the time of the briefing, total containment was 70%, and all evacuations had been lifted with roads reopened.

Pearce: Common Sense Forest Management Needed