Single Publication

Little Mesa Fire Update - August 8, 2023

Location: Approx. 15 miles west, southwest of Delta, CO, Dominguez Escalante National Conservation Area           

Jurisdiction: Bureau of Land Management                    Discovered: July 31, 2023, 11:00 AM

Cause: Lightning                                                          Vegetation Type: Pinyon pine, Juniper, sagebrush, and grass

Estimated Size: 300-acre                                             Containment: 0%

Total Personnel:  60                                                    Full Suppression Fire

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: Air operations are being conducted on the Little Mesa Fire. For your safety, please stay out of the Pothole Recreation Area. The helicopters will be using this water source to dip water from the potholes for fire suppression. The pilot needs to be focused on conducting this mission safely and is concerned for the public safety. Firefighters are overseeing the operation at the Potholes.

Current Situation:  The Little Mesa Fire is a full suppression fire with a confine and contain strategy that provides for firefighter safety. Yesterday, red flag conditions continued to push the fire towards Dry Mesa which is the desired direction. Last night firefighters successfully fired out vegetation along the Tatum Ridge Road from the northwest fire edge towards the west to protect values at risk in Escalante Canyon. Fire resources were able to complete 90% of the indirect handline and anticipate completion today.  

Another round of red flag conditions will be in effect from noon to 9 PM. The fire will receive stronger wind gusts today with hot and dry conditions. This combination will provide critical conditions to the area this afternoon. Wednesday will remain mostly dry with weaker winds.  

Evacuations and Closures:  No evacuations or closure orders have been issued.

Smoke:  Smoke is visible from surrounding areas and Highway 50 and C37 Road. Go to https://fire.airnow.gov to get updated smoke conditions in North America. 

Aviation Safety:  Aircraft may be used over the Little Mesa Fire air space. Fire aviation resources are flying at different altitudes and speeds. Pilots should exercise caution when flying near wildfires to keep everyone safe. Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones must never fly near wildfires, as UAS are difficult to see and drone pilots have no way of communicating with firefighting aircraft. The only UAS or drones able to fly are agency owned and operated and have been assigned to work on the wildfire and have communication with air operations. Remember if you fly, we can’t!

For updated information follow our social media outlets:

Facebook: @BLMMontroseFireUnit

Twitter: @SWD_Fire

Montrose Interagency Dispatch website: www.wildwebe.net/?dc_name=COMTC