Hermits Peak Fire (Wildfire)

The Las Dispensas prescribed fire on the Pecos/Las Vegas Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) was declared a wildfire at approximately 4:30 p.m. today. Although forecasted weather conditions were within parameters for the prescribed burn, unexpected erratic winds in the late afternoon caused multiple spot fires that spread outside the project boundary.Named the Hermits Peak Fire, the wildfire is approximately 12 miles northwest of Las Vegas and is estimated at 100+ acres. Fire managers have called in additional resources, including a Type 3 incident management team, very large air tanker (VLAT) and lead plane, two hotshot crews and two additional engines.  The Hermits Peak Fire is burning in mixed conifer in steep, rugged terrain. Due to the remote location of the fire and the rugged terrain, the strategy will be full suppression. The Hermits Peak Fire is moving toward the Pecos Wilderness. At this time, there are no direct threats to private property. Spot weather…