News Release

Mesa Verde to Conduct Prescribed Fire on Chapin Mesa

Date: January 26, 2021
Contact: Rob Smolcyznski, 970-529-5062
Contact: Cristy Brown, 970-529-4608

Mesa Verde National Park is planning to implement a prescribed fire between January 31 and February 28, 2021, weather permitting. The Chapin Mesa area prescribed fire is being conducted to dispose of material created during fuel reduction projects from last summer.   
 
The prescribed burn area is one acre in size and fuels are primarily comprised of Gambel oak, pinyon and juniper. Burning at this time of year should produce low intensity fire behavior, while still achieving desired fuel reduction goals. Ignition operations should take one day, but the unit may produce smoke for several days afterwards. Visitors to Mesa Verde may see smoke in the southwestern part of the park during these activities. 
 
Prescribed fire smoke may affect your health. For more information see: www.colorado.gov/cdphe/wood-smoke-and-health. 
 
For more information contact Rob Smolczynski, Mesa Verde Assistant Fire Management Officer, at [phone].  

 

-NPS-