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The BLM will begin a prescribed burn on Animas City Mountain today, Monday, May 8, 2023, starting mid-morning, if conditions allow. The prescribed burn at Animas City Mountain is a vital protective measure for the city of Durango. The BLM has coordinated with federal, state, county, and local officials in preparation to treat approximately 494 acres over the course of multiple days. Firefighting personnel will patrol the treated areas until fires are confirmed to be out.

The BLM temporary closure order is in effect May 8 within the Durango Special Recreation Management Area to all public use including trail system within Animas City Mountain until rescinded. A temporary closure is in effect for all City of Durango trails, trailheads, and parking lots at Animas City Mountain, Dalla Mountain Park, Tanque Verde, and X-Rock from May 8 to May 11. During this time, non-firefighting drones are also restricted from operation in the area.

Smoke will be visible throughout the day of a burn, mostly during the warmest part of the day. With cooler temperatures in the evening, smoke may linger and accumulate in low-lying areas. To minimize this, ignitions will end in the late afternoon to early evening.

According to the Colorado Air Pollution Control Division, “Prescribed fire smoke may affect your health. For more information see www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/wood-smoke-and-health.” For current air quality conditions, visit www.airnow.gov.

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