Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet                                                                                                                              9/29/2020       
Acres: 7,897                                                                                                      Incident Commander: Sean Carey, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                              Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: Middle Fork Fire continues to creep and smolder in available fuels along the fire perimeter. With forecasted sunny and unseasonably warm weather for the next week, increasing fire activity can be expected, especially when winds align with fuels and terrain. Now in its fourth week, the Middle Fork Fire is zero percent contained. A portion of the eastern fire perimeter has not advanced for over two weeks, however, without putting firefighters on the ground to construct containment line, looking, and feeling for heat and extinguishing it, incident managers will not call containment. Full suppression tactics employed include using helicopters to keep fire growth in check and identifying indirect control features that offer a higher probability of success should fire advance toward communities or other values at risk. The fire is likely to smolder until extinguished by snow accumulation. Visitors are reminded to avoid entering the area closure for their own safety and to allow firefighters to focus on fire operations, rather than visitor management (see Forest Closure below). Fire managers and the National Forest regularly evaluate the extent of the area closure and will adjust it to reduce impacts to public land users when they are confident it is safe to do so.

Weather: Mostly sunny skies with highs near 70 degrees and relative humidity of 15 - 20%. Winds are out of the west at 10 mph, gusting to 20 mph this afternoon.

Fire Behavior: Minimal to moderate with creeping, smoldering, and isolated and group torching events.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 84 personnel are assigned to the fire, including four helicopters (two Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection
  

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet                                                                                                                              9/28/2020       
Acres: 7,897                                                                                                      Incident Commander: Sean Carey, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                              Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: Cooler weather yesterday resulted in minimal creeping and smoldering along the fire’s edge. Isolated pockets of heat remain at the northeast and southwest corners of the perimeter. Moderate fire behavior is expected today under sunny skies, lower humidity, and warmer conditions. The numerous spot fires that developed around the fire perimeter during red flag winds demonstrate how receptive the extremely dry fuels are to any spark. An area closure remains in effect, and visitors are reminded to avoid the area for their own safety and to allow firefighters to focus on fire operations, rather than visitor management (see Forest Closure below). Fire managers and the National Forest regularly evaluate the extent of the area closure and will adjust it to reduce impacts to public land users when they are confident it is safe to do so.

Weather: Mostly sunny skies with highs in the mid-50s and lower relative humidity of 15 - 20%. Winds are out of the north at 10 mph, shifting to northwest, 15 mph this afternoon.

Fire Behavior: With warmer, drier conditions, crews expect to see increased creeping, smoldering, and isolated and group torching events. While the objective for this fire is full suppression, the Incident Management Team expects it will be active until persistent cool, wet weather sets in.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 87 personnel are assigned to the fire, including four helicopters (two Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection
  

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet                                                                                                                                               9/27/2020
Acres: 7,897                                                                                                             Incident Commander: Sean Carey, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                              Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: Under strong winds yesterday, approximately 380 acres of fire growth occurred primarily along the southern perimeter in heavy timber stands on the ridge north of South Fork drainage and on Horse Thief Peak. Wind-thrown embers ignited numerous small spot fires outside the main body of the fire, most of which appear north and south of the fire perimeter. An area closure remains in effect, and visitors are reminded to avoid the area for their own safety and to allow firefighters to focus on fire operations, rather than visitor management (see Forest Closure below). The incident management team appreciates the public’s appreciation and desire to donate sweets and treats. However, crews are well provided for, and the Incident Command Post can quickly become overwhelmed with goods we can’t consume. We encourage those who wish to make donations to consider supporting local fire protection districts, which protect and serve local communities year-round.

Weather: Partly cloudy, with scattered showers this afternoon. Highs will be in the low 50s with relative humidity of 27 - 32%. West winds 5 - 10 mph, gusting to 20 mph.

Fire Behavior: Cooler temperatures and higher humidity should temper behavior today. Crews expect to see the fire creeping, smoldering, and isolated and group torching events, mostly during windy conditions. While the objective for this fire is full suppression, the Incident Management Team expects it will be active until persistent cool, wet weather sets in.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 87 personnel are assigned to the fire, including four helicopters (two Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet                                                                                                                                              9/26/2020       
Acres: 7,499                                                                                                            Incident Commander: Sean Carey, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                              Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: The fire is consuming available fuels on the ridge north of South Fork drainage along the southern perimeter. To the north, it is working its way toward Roaring Fork Creek and Big Creek. Along the southeast perimeter, the fire is moving through heavy timber stands north of Horse Thief Peak, while it continues to hold on the east and northeast, and growth to the northwest and southwest has slowed in the past few days. Continued windy conditions today will promote short crown runs and group torching events that will likely produce a noticeable smoke column. Ground crews are directing water drops from helicopters where flareups occur to help limit rate of spread. Persistent drought has created extremely dry fuels that are receptive to burning. An area closure remains in effect, and visitors are reminded to avoid the area for their own safety and to allow firefighters to focus on fire operations, rather than visitor management (see Forest Closure below).

Weather: Mostly sunny this morning turning partly cloudy this afternoon. Highs will be in the upper 60s with relative humidity of 19 - 24%. West winds 10 - 15 mph, gusting to 25 mph.

Fire Behavior: Continued strong winds will promote single tree and group tree torching and small crown run events. Cooler temperatures and higher humidity could help moderate this behavior. While the objective for this fire is full suppression, the Incident Management Team expects it will be active until cooler, wetter weather sets in.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 89 personnel are assigned to the fire, including four helicopters (two Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection
  

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet                                                                                                                                           9/25/2020       
Acres: 6,760                                                                                                            Incident Commander: Sean Carey, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                                   Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: A red flag warning is in effect today due to warmer temperatures, lower relative humidity, and strong winds. This will keep firefighters on their toes, watching closely for increased fire behavior, while helicopters remain available for action when needed. Incident managers expect the fire to continue its advance through heavy timber along the fire perimeter to the northwest and to the south. A noticeable smoke column is likely during adverse fire weather. Crews continue preparation activities for structure protection and clearing along trails to improve access and as potential indirect holding and firing opportunities. Firefighters’ objective is for full suppression of the Middle Fork Fire, while maintaining public and firefighter safety as the highest priority.

Weather: Mostly sunny with highs in the 70s. Relative humidity dropping to 13 - 18%. Southwest winds 10 - 15 mph, gusting to 35 mph in the afternoon. Red flag warning in effect until 8:00 p.m. tonight.

Fire Behavior: High winds today are expected to increase fire behavior with increased torching and small crown run events. Fuels are extremely dry, making them highly receptive to fire. Given the dry conditions, heavy fuels, difficult access, and time of year, the Incident Management Team expects this fire will be active until cooler, wetter weather sets in.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 89 personnel are assigned to the fire, including four helicopters (two Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131

1130 Rainbow Lake

1179 Roxy Ann Lake

1099 Ditch Creek

1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)

1118 Elk Park

1168 Luna Lake

1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake

1170 Chilton

1182 Crags

1184 Big Creek Lake

1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet                                                                                                                              9/24/2020       
Acres: 6,760                                                                                                    Incident Commander: Sean Carey, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                              Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: Warmer, drier conditions and strong winds are expected to move through the fire area today and tomorrow, with red flag warning issued from noon today through Friday evening. Fire activity is expected to increase during windy conditions, especially during late afternoon hours. Crews are closely monitoring fire activity, with helicopters on standby for action when needed. Given the heavy fuels and hazardous conditions for firefighters where the fire is located, incident managers are looking out ahead of the fire for natural features that can be used to hold its advance, while protecting values at risk. Crews are clearing along trails as potential indirect holding opportunities and planning for structure protection. Firefighters’ objective is to fully contain the Middle Fork Fire, while maintaining public and firefighter safety as the highest priority.

Weather: Mostly sunny with highs in the low 70s. Relative humidity dropping to 14 - 19%. Southwest winds 7 - 12 mph, gusting to 20 mph in the afternoon.

Fire Behavior: High winds today and Friday are expected to increase fire behavior on the northwest and south sides of the fire, where there is heat from recent fire activity remains. The Incident Management Team expects this full suppression fire to burn until a persistent seasonal change of weather arrives.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 104 personnel are assigned to the fire, including four helicopters (two Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection
  

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet                                                                                                                              9/23/2020       
Acres: 6,720                                                                                                    Incident Commander: Sean Carey, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                              Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: The fire received a slight amount of rain yesterday evening. The fire is expected to continue following heavy fuels, flanking and backing to the northwest and to the south, along the ridges north and south of Middle Fork drainage. Rocky areas and changes in fuels are stalling fire growth on the eastern portion of the fire perimeter. Given the fuels and hazardous conditions for crews, incident managers are looking out ahead of the fire for natural features that can be used to hold its advance, while protecting values at risk. Areas with rocky outcrops, or where fuels shift to aspen, oak, or meadow offer the highest probability of successful containment. Crews are clearing along trails as potential indirect holding opportunities and planning for structure protection. Firefighters’ objective is to fully contain the Middle Fork Fire, while maintaining public and firefighter safety as the highest priority.

Weather: Mostly sunny with highs around 70. Relative humidity 18 - 23%. West winds 10 mph, gusting to 20 mph in the afternoon.

Fire Behavior: The start of fall brings shorter days and cooler temperatures, which discourage intense fire behavior. However, when wind aligns with fuels and slope, increased fire activity is expected. Heavy fuels remain extremely dry, making them highly receptive to fire. Crews are alert for changes, keeping helicopters ready for action when weather allows them to fly. The Incident Management Team expects this full suppression fire to burn until a persistent seasonal change of weather arrives.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 104 personnel are assigned to the fire, including four helicopters (two Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet                                                                                                                                              9/22/2020       
Acres: 6,187                                                                                                   Incident Commander: Brandon Voegtle, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                              Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: The fire continues to work its way downslope and upwind through timber stands on the ridges north and south of Middle Fork drainage. Single-tree and group torching events peak in the late afternoons. Helicopters are keeping fire intensity in check when flare-ups occur. There has been no notable movement on the eastern perimeter for some days. Crews are focused on planning for structure protection and preparation of indirect control lines - clearing along trails, linking meadows, rocky areas, and lighter fuels that offer the highest probability of successful fire containment. Firefighters’ objective is to fully contain the Middle Fork Fire, while keeping public and firefighter safety as the highest priority. The fire’s location, heavy fuels, and hazardous conditions limit options for direct attack.  

Weather: Mostly sunny this morning, turning partly cloudy, and brining a chance of showers and thunderstorms this afternoon. Highs in the 60s with relative humidity at 21 - 26%. Light down-valley winds this morning shifting to west winds 5 - 10 mph. Gusty, erratic winds associated with thunderstorms this afternoon.

Fire Behavior: The onset of fall, with shorter days and cooler temperatures, and recent higher humidity tend to calm fire behavior; however, thunderstorms often bring gusty winds that can cause flare-ups and toss burning embers into unburned fuels. Crews are alert for changes, keeping helicopters ready for action when weather allows them to fly. The Incident Management Team expects this full suppression fire to burn until a persistent seasonal change of weather arrives.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 96 personnel are assigned to the fire, including four helicopters (two Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection
  

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet for 9/21/2020       
Acres: 6,187                                                                          
Incident Commander: Brandon Voegtle, Type 3 IMT

Today’s Situation: Recent fire growth is concentrated along the western perimeter, backing down the Middle Fork drainage and ridges to its north and south. Helicopters are keeping fire intensity in check when flare-ups occur. Incident managers have identified areas of lighter fuels, meadows, and rocky terrain to the west, northwest, and south of the fire. Crews aim to take advantage of these types of natural features that offer a higher probability of successful containment. Old burn scars to the north and the Continental Divide to the east offer significant natural barriers to limit fire spread in those directions. Firefighters’ objective is to fully contain the Middle Fork Fire, while keeping public and firefighter safety as the highest priority. The fire’s location, heavy fuels, and hazardous conditions limit options for direct attack.

Weather: Mostly sunny, with highs in the 60s and relative humidity at 19 - 24%. Down-valley winds of 5 - 10 mph will shift up-valley, 10 - 15 mph by mid-morning, with gusts to 25 mph.

Fire Behavior: The onset of fall, with shorter days and cooler temperatures, and recent higher humidity tend to calm fire behavior; however, gusty winds can cause flare-ups and toss burning embers into unburned fuels. Crews are alert for changes, keeping helicopters ready for action when weather allows them to fly. The Incident Management Team expects this full suppression fire to burn until a persistent seasonal change of weather arrives.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 96 personnel are assigned to the fire, including three helicopters (one Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including planning for pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.

Middle Fork Fire Fact Sheet for 9/20/2020       
Acres: 5,837                                                                                          
Incident Commander: Brandon Voegtle, Type 3 IMT
Fire Information phone line: 970-724-3027                                             
nciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7153/

Today’s Situation: Under gusty southwest winds yesterday, fire growth was focused in heavy timber on the northwest fire perimeter, pressing toward an old burn scar to the north. Helicopters worked this area, keeping fire intensity in check. Slight rain last night and increased humidity should help temper fire behavior today, through firefighters are cautious of continued gusty winds. A multi-mission aircraft flight is scheduled for today to obtain updated acreage and mapping for tomorrow. Incident managers have identified areas of lighter fuels, meadows, and rocky terrain to the west, northwest, and south of the fire. Crews aim to take advantage of these types of natural features that offer a higher probability of successful containment. Old burn scars to the north and the Continental Divide to the east offer significant natural barriers to limit fire spread in those directions. Firefighters’ objective is to fully contain the Middle Fork Fire, while keeping public and firefighter safety as the highest priority. The fire’s location, heavy fuels, and hazardous conditions limit options for direct attack.

Weather: Mostly sunny, with highs in the 50s to lower 60s and higher relative humidity at 24 -29%. Down-valley winds of 5 - 10 mph will shift up-valley, 12 - 18 mph by mid-morning, with gusts to 25 mph.

Fire Behavior: Cooler temperatures and higher humidity tend to calm fire behavior; however, gusty winds can cause flare-ups and toss burning embers into unburned fuels. Crews will be watchful for any changes and new fire activity, keeping helicopters ready for action when weather allows them to fly. The Incident Management Team expects this full suppression fire to burn until a persistent seasonal change of weather arrives.

Firefighting Resources: Approximately 96 personnel are assigned to the fire, including three helicopters  (one Type 1 and two Type 3) and a fixed-wing air attack to help coordinate aerial operations.

Evacuations: There are no evacuation or pre-evacuation orders in effect. If the fire were to reach any pre-identified management action points, it would trigger Routt County Sheriff’s Office to initiate pre-evacuation orders through their reverse-911 system. To sign up for alerts, visit http://routtcountyalerts.com. The county provides tips for wildfire preparedness, including pets and livestock, on their website at http://www.co.routt.co.us/309/Fire-Safety-Tips-for-Rural-Residents.

Forest Closure: Routt National Forest has issued an area closure. The closure boundary follows Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary on east. On the south it follows Trail 1132 (Newcomb Creek), Trail 1101 (CDNST), the Wilderness boundary, and Trails 1100 (Swamp Park), 1140 (Saddle), 1140.1A (Saddle Cut-off), and 1171 (Red Dirt). On the west it follows the boundary between National Forest and private lands east of Big Creek from Red Dirt Trailhead to Trail 1176 (Roaring Fork) and continues north along the Wilderness boundary. On the north it follows the North Fork Drainage up to The Dome, east to Lost Ranger Peak, CDNST, and Trail 1131 (Lost Ranger). Trails 1131, 1132, 1166, and 1140 are open. Portion of Trails 1100 and 1171 are open where they follow the closure boundary, closed where they enter the closed area. No roads or trailheads are closed.

Closed trails include:

• Appx. 10 miles of CDNST from 1132 to 1131
• 1130 Rainbow Lake
• 1179 Roxy Ann Lake
• 1099 Ditch Creek
• 1100 and 1100.4A Swamp Park (within Wilderness Area only)
• 1118 Elk Park
• 1168 Luna Lake
• 1168.1 Fish Hawk Lake
• 1170 Chilton
• 1182 Crags
• 1184 Big Creek Lake
• 1171 Red Dirt past Trail 1140 intersection
  

Fire Restrictions: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect in Routt and Jackson counties, on all of the Routt National Forest, and across much of Northwest Colorado.