Fort Collins, CO – A multi-agency fire operation in northern Colorado successfully treated nearly 300 acres of land this week as the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Phantom Canyon wildland fire crew assisted Rocky Mountain National Park with a major prescribed burn project.
According to Rocky Mountain National Park, the burn was part of its Front Country prescribed fire initiative, designed to restore natural habitat, reduce wildfire risk, and rejuvenate forest health. The Phantom Canyon crew worked alongside several regional partners to complete the effort, which used a “mosaic-pattern” strategy to protect wildlife habitat.
“The landscape is burned in a mosaic-pattern, meaning that firefighters intentionally leave some vegetation unburned to provide habitat for wildlife,” RMNP officials shared. “Prescribed fire works to rejuvenate soils, consume dead vegetation, and provide for richer habitat come spring.”
Prescribed burns are used throughout Colorado as a tool to reduce hazardous fuels and create natural fire breaks, a critical step in preventing large-scale wildfires during the state’s increasingly volatile fire seasons. Officials say the timing and weather conditions this week offered safe, controlled conditions for the operation.
LCSO noted that the project also provided a valuable learning opportunity for its Phantom Canyon crew, strengthening operational skills and inter-agency coordination. Officials say the work ultimately improves long-term wildfire resiliency for surrounding communities across Larimer County and the Rocky Mountain region.
Residents in nearby areas may see light smoke in the coming days, which officials say is normal following a prescribed burn.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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