The Journal
Mesa Verde National Park will conduct a prescribed fire from Jan. 31 to Feb. 28, weather permitting. The Chapin Mesa area prescribed fire is being conducted to dispose of material created during fuel-reduction projects from last summer.
The prescribed burn area is 1 acre in size and fuels are primarily comprised of Gambel oak, piñon and juniper. Burning at this time of year should produce low intensity fire behavior, while still achieving desired fuel-reduction goals. Ignition operations should take one day, but the unit may produce smoke for several days afterwards. Visitors to Mesa Verde may see smoke in the southwestern part of the park during these activities.
Prescribed fire smoke may affect health. For more information, visit www.colorado.gov/cdphe/wood-smoke-and-health.
For more information, contact Rob Smolczynski at 529-5062.