Forest officials in northern New Mexico are planning a prescribed burn in April that will cover nearly 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares).
    
Fire managers on the El Rito Ranger District of the Carson National Forest say they are looking to take advantage of favorable conditions so the burn can be done over the next few weeks.
    
The areas to be treated are north of El Rito and east of the village of Vallecitos.
    
Officials say the goal is to improve wildlife habitat, reduce hazardous fuels, improve range conditions and protect the adjacent community of Vallecitos and nearby private ranches.
    
A community meeting about the burn is planned for April 6 in Vallecitos.