New Mexico Wild has submitted comments on the Coronado National Forest’s Draft Environmental Assessment (Draft EA) for the proposed Peloncillo FireScape Project. While we acknowledge the project’s objectives to reduce wildfire risk and maintain ecological processes, we have concerns about its potential impact on designated wilderness study areas, roadless areas, and native species composition within the project area.
Our primary concerns revolve around the adequacy of analysis and design features in the Draft EA to address these potential adverse effects. The proposed action, as outlined in the Draft EA, may not sufficiently protect the undeveloped quality of designated wilderness study areas and roadless areas, particularly the Peloncillo Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA). Protecting the wilderness characteristics of these areas is critical, as they often lack robust and permanent protection afforded to other congressionally designated areas.
While supporting the Coronado National Forest’s science-based approach to restoration and fire risk reduction, we call for stronger measures to protect wilderness characteristics and mitigate potential impacts on designated wilderness study areas and roadless areas in the project area. New Mexico Wild urges the CNF to address these concerns and enhance the Draft EA accordingly.
