Montrose, COLO.—Sheriff Gene Lillard is lifting fire restrictions effective Friday, October 2 at 12:01 am. The decision was made alongside partner agencies including federal lands, weather partners, and surrounding counties in order to avoid confusion when recreating in the region. This affects land within unincorporated Montrose County, and now allows residents to burn as necessary.
The decision was based on fuel moisture measurements in vegetation, predicated weather, and the amount of current fire activity in the county. Residents and visitors are encouraged to use caution when burning.
“Even though fire restrictions have been lifted, I am strongly urging community members to use caution when burning. Please make sure to have water and shovels readily available when burning and always call dispatch at 970-249-9110 before burning,” said Sheriff Lillard. “This year has been a challenge for firefighters and firefighting resources across the nation and I want the public to be mindful of limited resources available due to major fires in both Colorado and the western U.S.”
Please know before you go and visit westslopefireinfo.com for information on restrictions in surrounding areas and the latest fire-related information. To learn more about campfire safety, please visit www.smokeybear.com.