Single Publication

Prescribed Fires Near Mogote Called Off

Expected break in winds not developing

LA JARA, CO, June 22, 2023 – Despite favorable vegetation and fuels conditions, the Conejos Peak Ranger District has decided to postpone the planned prescribed fires in the Mogote area. Fire managers have determined that an anticipated break in the windy weather pattern is not going to develop in time to meet project objectives. Forecast windspeeds will remain above the parameters set forth in the prescribed fire plan.  

“Our fire managers are constantly evaluating weather and fuels conditions,” said Conejos Peak District Ranger Andrea Jones. “Past experience with similar burn windows has resulted in successful prescribed fires in this area. This time, we knew that we would only implement the burn if the forecasted winds did not materialize.” Jones expressed her gratitude to the burn boss for investing so much time and effort into preparation for this burn and being cognizant of all the elements needed to conduct a successful prescribed fire.

Fire managers will continue to seek opportunities to conduct the Bighorn/Stateline and Conejos Canyon prescribed fires but are doubtful that a “burn window” will develop until after the monsoon subsides later in the summer.

The Bighorn/Stateline project is being implemented in cooperation with the Carson National Forest in New Mexico and falls within the Rio Chama Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Project boundaries.

For information on the Rio Grande National Forest, call (719) 850-2374, visit the forest website, or follow us on our Facebook page or Twitter.

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