San Miguel Fire continues to grow

BANDELIER NATL MONUMENT, N. M. (KRQE) - The lightning-sparked San Miguel Fire burning in the Bandelier Wilderness has grown to more than 400 acres and has spread into the Santa Fe National Forest.

However officials said the blaze currently is being managed for its resource benefits and poses no threat to life, safety or property.

Smoke from the fire has been visible for the past few days from Los Alamos and Santa Fe and as far away as Albuquerque.

The fire is located about 13 miles south of Los Alamos and mostly has been "smoldering and creeping" with occasional flare-ups in the afternoon and into the evening, according to fire managers.

With flames spreading into about five acres of the Dome Wilderness the Forest Service has joined the National Park Service in jointly managing the fire.

Bandelier National Monument remains open although some backcountry trails and camping areas are closed. Monument personnel are maintaining a public-information site at the scenic overlook on the main road into Bandelier offering a view of the fire.