Forest Fire Restrictions In Effect

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Fire restrictions go into effect Tuesday in parts of the Cibola and Santa Fe National Forests, just days before the Memorial Day Weekend.

As of Tuesday morning, park visitors will need a permit for campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires, except in forest service-developed camp and picnic grounds.

Forest officials say fire restrictions are necessary because of warmer temperatures, higher winds, and dry conditions.

"You know, we got a lot of dry wind going on, and while it's a lot different than last year, people need to know we are in high fire danger right now, particularly in the Sandias, and we need you to be careful," Cibola National Forest spokeswoman Karen Carter said.

The Lincoln National Forest put fire restrictions into effect last Thursday.