BLM Plans Prescribed Burns in Lincoln County

Smoke may be visible from nearby communities as part of wildfire prevention efforts.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is planning a series of prescribed burn operations in Lincoln County, New Mexico, starting in February 2026. The burns will take place at the Fort Stanton - Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area, covering 2,026 acres across four burn units. The operations are weather-dependent and are expected to continue through March.

Why it matters

The prescribed burns are part of the BLM's efforts to reduce the risk of damage from wildfires and loss to adjacent property. The burns also aim to improve watershed and habitat conditions, increase the health and vigor of the native plant community, and reduce the threat of invasive species.

The details

Prior to the prescribed burns, firefighters will conduct a test fire to assess the fire behavior and ensure they have sufficient resources on site to keep the burn contained. If the fire behavior is not favorable or the resources are inadequate, the burn will be postponed. The BLM will coordinate with the New Mexico Environment Department and follow air quality regulations during the prescribed fires.

  • The prescribed burn operations are planned to begin in February 2026.
  • The burns are expected to continue through March 2026.

The players

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

A federal agency that manages public lands in the United States, including the Fort Stanton - Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area where the prescribed burns will take place.

Dominic Bell

BLM Pecos District Fire Management Specialist, who can be contacted for more information about the prescribed burn project.

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What’s next

The BLM encourages the public to continue to be careful with fire and to report any wildfires on public land by calling the Alamogordo Interagency Dispatch at 877-695-1663.

The takeaway

The prescribed burns in Lincoln County are part of the BLM's ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of wildfires and improve the overall health of the local ecosystem. By coordinating with environmental agencies and following safety protocols, the BLM aims to mitigate the potential impact of the smoke on nearby communities.