Wildfires Near Colorado National Monument Prompt Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in Area Parks and Lands

Several wildfires are burning near Colorado National Monument, reducing atmospheric visibility and decreasing air quality⁷. Stage 2 fire restrictions are in effect in some national parks and public lands in Colorado, including Black Canyon and Curecanti, which moved to these restrictions to reduce the risk of fire in the region³¹¹. Recent fires in Colorado include the Williams Fire in Las Animas, the Mcinnis Fire in Mesa, and the Willow Fire in Lake, with the Willow Fire being the largest at 2131 acres¹⁴¹⁰. Fire restrictions are being implemented in alignment with multiple state and federal partners to reduce the risk of fire in the region¹¹.

These restrictions prohibit building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire, including charcoal fires or pellet grills, in all park areas³. However, properly shielded, self-contained propane or liquid-fueled camp stoves and grills, lanterns, or other heated devices with on/off switches are permitted³. The restrictions also prohibit all smoking, except within a personally-owned enclosed vehicle, and discharging or using any kind of fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices³.

The fire restrictions are in place due to the extremely dry conditions and high fire danger in the region⁵. Several areas, including Black Canyon and Curecanti, have moved to Stage 2 fire restrictions to reduce the risk of fire¹¹. The public is advised to follow the restrictions and take necessary precautions to prevent wildfires.