SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – The Caja Fire located on the Caja Del Rio Plateau in the Santa Fe National Forest started on August 23. Firefighters were able to contain the fire on August 31.
- Start Date: August 23, 2020 | Final Update: August 31, 2020
- Location: Caja Del Rio Plateau west of Santa Fe in Española Ranger District of Santa Fe National Forest
- Containment: 100%
- Size: approximately 158 acres
- Structures Threatened: No
- Structures Burned: No
- Evacuations: No
- Cause: Presumed to be lightning
- Personnel: 8
- Vegetation: Piñon and juniper
Santa Fe National Forest officials report winds helped to push the fire to the north face where it is showing low to moderate fire behavior. While there are no immediate values at risk, there are natural and cultural resources, as well as a powerline in proximity to the fire.
Aerial support from the Medio Fire dropped retardant on the Caja Fire on Sunday night that helped to slow its spread. Two SFNF engines are at the fire on Monday with another engine on its way from the Southern Pueblos Agency.
Additionally, two SFNF cultural resources advisors are currently at the scene and a 12-person hand crew will arrive from Arizona on Tuesday.
The cold front should help clear some of the smoke from the Caja Fire, Medio Fire and multiple fires burning in adjacent states. Smoke from the Caja Fire will likely be visible from Santa Fe to Los Alamos and along the I-25 corridor and the 599 Bypass. Members of the public are urged to stay away from fire operations and are reminded that drones are a risk to firefighting and can cause air operations to be halted.
