Coyote fire steps up to Type 2 Incident Command

The lightning ignited fire was discovered near Coyote Peak in the northwest corner of Guadalupe Mountains National Park at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 7.

Provided by Elizabeth Jackson, PIO, Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Salt Flat, Texas – The Coyote Fire has continued to spread along Frijole Ridge and cross over the southwest area of Bush Mountain in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Fire lines are being maintained on the South and West perimeter. Earlier fire objectives set by the Park have been met and incoming  Type 2 Incident Team will focus on active suppression efforts.

Continued high winds and low humidity contribute to fire activity. It is expected that fire will remain active and will continue to creep within the Bowl area of the Park and along south McKittrick Canyon due to abundant fuel sources of grass, brush and timber. Smoke continues to be visible along US 62/180 and in Pine Springs area of the park. Firefighters remain focused on keeping fire south of New Mexico state line and west of McKittrick Canyon area to prohibit additional impact on private lands.   

Guadalupe Peak Trail, El Capitan Trail, McKittrick Canyon, Smith Spring Trail and the Pine Springs campground, remain CLOSED due to extreme smoke in these areas of the park. The Pine Springs Visitor Center remains open with regular hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

  Crews remain vigilant in their duties both on the fire and off. The public is reminded that there are still inherent dangers regarding the Coyote Fire, and to be alert to changing area restrictions.

Closures: Closures remain in place: Dog Canyon, Devil’s Hall Trail, Frijole Trail, Foothill Trail,  Guadalupe Peak Trail, El Capitan Trail, McKittrick Canyon, Smith Spring Trail and the Pine Springs Campground. All backcountry areas of the Park will remain CLOSED until further notice. Park areas remaining open are Salt Basin Dunes on the west end of the park, near Dell City, Texas.

Acres: 13,592

Total Personnel: 136 Containment: 70%   Start Date: May 7, 2016 Cause: Lightning

Location: 46 miles SW of Carlsbad, NM Fuels/Topography: Grass/brush/chaparral, rugged terrain

Fire Information:

Coyote Fire Information No.

(575) 616-7901

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