Multiple agencies responded to the Ranger Road wildfire approximately 4 miles southwest of Montrose, CO on Monday April 5th. The fire burned approximately 50 acres in cottonwood, pinon-juniper, cattail, and grass fuels. 10 structures were immediately threatened along with 3 radio towers, and there was a subdivision a half mile away to the north. Due to the rapid initial attack actions taken by the local agencies, damages were limited to 1 destroyed outbuilding. The fire is indicative of current conditions and the fire potential in the southwest portion of Colorado.
Montrose FPD was first on scene, received assistance from Loghill and Olathe FPD’s, and also requested assistance from DFPC. DFPC resources responding included 2 Battalion Chiefs, 9 members of Montrose Helitack, and Helicopter 28HJ. The helicopter flew for 2.1 hours, dropping 61 buckets for a total of 14,640 gallons of water. The recent passage of SB21-049 authorized DFPC to bring on our Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs) and Helicopters on contract earlier than in previous years, and Monday was the first day of the new, extended 230 day contract for both of our Exclusive Use helicopters.
DFPC’s strategy is to assist local fire agencies and be prepared for longer and more destructive wildfires by extending contracts of our existing resources, along with new resources including a Large Air Tanker (LAT) and an additional contract for a Type 1 Helicopter. The passing of SB21-049 and SB21-113 will allow DFPC to respond more effectively to Colorado’s growing wildfire seasons #cofire #dfpcfire