Horse Fire area closure lifted

Posted

By Gretchen Fitzgerald

Special to The SUN

The closure area for the Horse Fire has been lifted and all trails and roads are open.

Many hazards still exist in the burn area, including falling burned trees, hot burning areas, rolling debris such as logs and rocks, potential for heavy smoke with limited visibility and holes from burned-out roots. Increased water, mud and ash flows may result in trail damage and anyone entering the area should take safety precautions.

The Horse Creek and Devil Mountain Trails were impacted by fire activity. Trail rehabilitation is complete on the Horse Creek Trail and is ongoing on the Devil Mountain Trail. The area is especially hazardous during and immediately after thunderstorms or windy conditions.

The Horse Fire was discovered on Aug. 28. The fire burned in steep, rugged terrain in dense mixed conifers with pockets of aspen and oak brush.

The fire is currently at 272 acres and 90 percent contained. The Horse Fire is located 16 miles northwest of Pagosa Springs and 8 miles north of U.S. 160. Smoke may continue to be visible and firefighters will continue to monitor the fire. Minimal fire behavior is expected.

To report a new fire on federal lands, please contact the Durango Interagency Fire Dispatch Center at 385-1324.

For more information, contact the Pagosa District at 264-2268.