Single Publication

QUARTZ RIDGE & BEAR CREEK FIRES

Update: October 4, 2023                    

Type 4 Team, Incident Commander: Alex Farinetti

This will be the FINAL regular Update on the Quartz Ridge and Bear Creek fires.

Overview: 

On October 3, Alex Farinetti’s Type 4 team assumed command of the Quartz Ridge Fire and the Bear Creek Fire.

The new smaller organization is comprised of a wildfire module that will continue to patrol both fire areas, with spotters watching for any increase in fire activity.  The team will use location-specific weather forecasting information and infrared heat detection data to help carry out its strategy.  It will also have access to aerial resources should they be needed.

Both fires are located in steep, remote terrain that poses a significant safety risk to firefighters.  There has been very little growth from either fire in recent weeks, and only minimal smoke output.  Recent precipitation has further dampened fire activity.  If conditions were to change and more aggressive fire behavior were to develop, firefighters have strategies in place to take more aggressive actions.

Quartz Ridge Fire:  2,850 acres | The fire is located in steep, remote terrain in the San Juan Wilderness, 13 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs.  It received nearly ¾ of an inch of rain over a 36-hour period starting October 1.  There is very little heat, all within the current perimeter.

Bear Creek Fire:  1,094 acres | Nearly 1 inch of rain fell on the fire between October 1st and 2nd.  There have been a few small, isolated areas of heat and smoke in the northern section of the fire, but no smoke has been visible since the rainfall.  Structure protection equipment remains in place at homes and ranch properties in the northern section of the Weminuche Valley, and will remain there until fire managers conclude there is no potential threat of the fire coming down into the valley.  

Weather:  

As mentioned, significant rainfall fell on both fires between October first and second.  The weather for the later part of the week is going to be dry and cool, with high temperatures in the 55-65 degree range Wednesday and Thursday.

San Juan NF Temporary Closures: In the Quartz Creek Fire area, the Quartz Creek Trail (NFST#571) remains closed.  In the Bear Creek Fire area, Little Sand Trail (NFST #591) and Shaw Creek Trail (NFST#584) are closed. For more info: Quartz Ridge Closure and Bear Creek Closure.

Prescribed Fire:  There has been increased smoke production this week caused by prescribed burning in locations on the San Juan National Forest.  For the most up to date and detailed information, visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident-maps-gallery/cosjf-san-juan-national-forest-prescribed-fire-program