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Chimney Rock Prescribed Burn

Fire managers with the San Juan National Forest Pagosa Ranger District plan to conduct a 90-acre prescribed burn this week at Chimney Rock National Monument 17 miles southwest of Pagosa Springs.  

Ignition is planned to begin in the late morning, March 3.  Significant rain could delay the prescribed burn to later in the week.

The prescribed burn will be conducted by a crew of 20-25 people , with two U.S. Forest Service fire engines at the scene.  Smoke will be visible from U.S. Highway 160, Colorado Highway 151, and the Arboles, Aspen Springs and Elk Park subdivision areas.  Some smoke may settle overnight in the Stollsteimer Creek and Piedra River areas.

Fuel was reduced within the burn area in 2009. The smoke generated from the prescribed burn is expected to be minor. 

Chimney Rock National Monument is currently closed and does not open for the season until May 15 and will not be affected by the prescribed burn.  No highway closures are expected. 

Additional information about the prescribed burn is available through the Pagosa Ranger District, at 180 Pagosa Street, Pagosa Springs or (970) 264-2268.