By Esther Godson
A small fire, incident 76, on the Columbine Ranger District began on May 4 around 4pm. It is located northwest of the Forest Lakes subdivision on Bureau of Land Management land the San Juan National Forest has suppression responsibility over. Fire investigators are on scene to determine the cause. It is approximately .65 acres in size. Fire lines held overnight, and crews continue to secure and mop-up the fire with helicopter support.
Fire danger on the San Juan National Forest is high. Fire managers are preparing for increased fire danger with Red Flag warnings issued for dry fuels and gusty winds as hot conditions continue. Forest visitors can do their part to help by preventing human caused fires and following these guidelines:
- No fires or smoking outside is allowed. Fire restrictions are currently in effect (order).
- Practice proper vehicle maintenance, ensuring that tow chains are secured, and vehicles have no dragging parts—dragging chains along the ground can spark fires.
- Check your tire pressure and properly maintain your brakes.
- When target shooting, take precautions: place your target on dirt or gravel, switch to paper targets, and bring a shovel and fire extinguisher. REMEMBER: Incendiary targets/ exploding ammunition are illegal on ALL Federal lands.
- Report any fires by calling 9-1-1.
Smoke from the fire may be visible to the surrounding Forest Lakes subdivision, Bayfield community, and County Road 501. Wildfire smoke may affect your health. For more information, please go to: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/wood-smoke-and-health .
All offices on the San Juan National Forest are currently conducting business and providing services virtually. For more information on the San Juan National Forest, call (970) 247- 4874, or visit the Forest website at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sanjuan/.
Esther Godson is Public Affairs Officer for the Forest Service, San Juan National Forest.