During a regular work session on Tuesday, Aug. 25, the Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) heard from Colorado State University (CSU) Extension Director Cindi Galabota about what her office is doing to provide recovery resources for those affected by the recent Rio Blanco Fire.
Galabota explained that she’s been working with the county’s public health department, along with the San Juan Conservation District, in discussing what resources and recovery efforts the CSU Extension office could offer.
She noted that a survey was sent out to residents and that the survey was directed toward the Rio Blanco Fire, “but it’s really for anyone who may need resources.”
She explained that the survey asked about exterior home repair, interior smoke damage, repairs to fences and out buildings, soil erosion control, vegetation landscaping, wells, septic, and drinking water concerns.
“Those are kind of the big categories we’ve asked with that survey,” she said, noting the survey also asked about potential mental health resources and insurance needs.
Galabota also explained that she heard a presentation from U.S. Forest Service (USFS) District Ranger Josh Peck about the conditions of the fire.
Galabota clarified that she was not speaking directly for Peck, “but one of the main things I got out of it, is because of the way they handled the fire, the soil isn’t as damaged as they thought it could be.”
She noted that some areas burned hotter than others.
“That was important to me because soil erosion can be a big issue,” Galabota said, explaining fires can cause hydrophobic soils “where the water’s not going anywhere, causing significant flooding.”
She also indicated that there are various sources of potential grant funds for recovery efforts, but that she is waiting on feedback from the community to see what specific resources are needed.
Commissioner John Ranson commended Galabota’s work during the evacuations caused by the Rio Blanco Fire, saying that “returning home was big.”
Ranson also noted that the CSU Extension office was able to provide resources for evacuees while the county’s fair was also taking place.
“Something good always comes out of something bad,” Ranson said, explaining that people are now looking closer at how to make their homes safer.
Galabota mentioned she felt more prepared for the Rio Blanco Fire after dealing with the Oak Fire in August 2025.
“As a staff we’ve come together and put some plans in place so that for if and when that does happen ... we’ll be more prepared,” she said.
Commissioner Veronica Medina highlighted that there were no injuries or homes lost in the fire.
“We learned a lot from it,” she said.
“You guys have really got the hang of this fire response,” Commissioner Warren Brown commented.
He noted that, “sadly,” fire events like the two that have occurred in the county since August 2025 will likely continue, “but the service to the community has been outstanding, and the partnership, and everybody just kind of falls in line.”
Brown explained that everyone responding to the fire knows what’s going on and what’s expected.
“This is a big deal, having the ability to bring large livestock,” he added, mentioning how residents have the ability to house large livestock at the county fairgrounds when evacuation orders are issued.
Galabota commented that part of the CSU’s outreach “isn’t just us informing, but us teaching,” noting the importance of livestock owners trailer training their horses.
Medina indicated that a report from the USFS on the soil conditions of the fire area is being prepared.
“The areas that were burnt the most were small areas, and they were in the Frio Canyon,” she added.
clayton@pagosasun.com
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