NEW-MEXICO

State Forestry: New Mexico could see worst fire season in decade

Associated Press
In this June 30, 2016, photo, firefighters respond to a wildfire near the Morningside Heights neighborhood near Table Rock in east Boise, Idaho.   A new study on Western forest fires confirms what is already apparent — wildfire seasons are getting longer and more destructive. But researchers with the University of Idaho and Columbia University also say humans are to blame for much of that increase.

ALBUQUERQUE - New Mexico State Forestry officials say they already are anticipating an aggressive fire season, as 70 percent of the state is facing severe drought.

KRQE-TV reports Forestry Division Official Greg Hesch says conditions are very dry and the agency already is training extra firefighters throughout the state to be ready when the calls to extinguish fires start coming in.

Hesch also says the state could be facing the worst fire season in a decade.

Hesch is urging people to be extra vigilant any time they are outdoors and especially around campfires. He expects there will be plenty of fire restrictions in the coming months.

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