photo #2010245

     Not long ago, a social media friend wanted a backyard bonfire for the grandkids.  She took the time to ask if our area had any burn bans in place.  Smart move, at the time we were under a red flag warning (no outdoor burning).     Today I saw that 130,000 acres had already burned in northern New Mexico.  It is reminiscent of the Los Alamos fire of 2000.  Both of these fires were started as prescribed burns.  A prescribed burn has a written plan with set parameters and established goals.       When done right, a prescribed burn has marvelous results including reducing risks of wildfires.  However, too often it appears that bureaucrats have lost all common sense.  Because the plan was written 2 months ago and approved they "light the fire" regardless of current weather conditions.  You and I might honor a red flag warning but not the "experts".  The results are catastrophic for surrounding communities.  Pay attention ....