Grizzly Creek Fire Update for 8/12/2020

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Grizzly Creek Fire Update Aug. 12, 2020, 9 a.m. Upper Colorado Interagency Fire and Aviation Management Unit Media Contact: Brian Scott, 970 930-1089 Grizzly Creek Fire grows, additional resources arriving Current Situation: Today, the fire is expected to be extremely active and fast-moving. Hotshot crews in Division A will prepare structure protection, setting up hose and sprinkler kits in the No Name area. Heavy helitankers and engines will be used in Division W to secure the Shoshone power plant. Crews in Division N are scouting the Coffee Pot Road and Flat Tops area to locate values at risk, identify firefighting needs, and opportunities for containment along the north end of the fire. Engines, heavy equipment, and hand crews in Division Z will be working in the Lookout Mountain area preparing structure protection. Today at 6 a.m. command of the fire was transferred to the Rocky Mountain Type 2 Incident Management Blue Team. Weather & Fuel Conditions: Continued hot and dry, with winds increasing in the afternoon, gusting to 30 mph. The fire is burning in mixed conifer, aspen, and oak brush. All fuel types are very dry and receptive to fire. Evacuations and Closures: For updated information about evacuations in Garfield County, contact the Sheriff’s Office at (970) 945-0453, in Eagle County call (970) 328-8500. Cottonwood Pass Road in Eagle and Garfield counties are closed. Interstate 70 remains closed between Glenwood Springs and Gypsum, with no estimated time for reopening. Visit www.cotrip.org for road closure information. Coffee Pot Road, Transfer Trail and Clinetop Mesa roads are closed, as is much of the surrounding BLM and Forest Service lands. Maps of the closures are available on InciWeb. Fire Restrictions: All jurisdictions in the area are under Stage 1 fire restrictions and will move to Stage 2 on Thursday. Grizzly Creek Fire Statistics: Size: 3,351 acres Containment: 0% Total Personnel: 211; additional resources have been ordered Aircraft: Two Very Large Air Tankers (VLAT), multiple Large Air Tankers, 4 heavy helicopters, 1 medium helicopter Cause: Under Investigation Start Date: Aug. 10, 2020 Location: Glenwood Canyon Contact Information: InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6942/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrizzlyCreekFireCO Fire Info Line: (970) 930-1850 ### .

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Disaster Emergency Due to the Grizzly Creek Fire in Garfield and Eagle Counties and Related Damage to Interstate 70
D 2020 187 EXECUTIVE ORDER Declaring a Disaster Emergency Due to the Grizzly Creek Fire in Garfield and Eagle Counties and Related Damage to Interstate 70 Pursuant to the authority vested in the Governor of the State of Colorado and, in particular, pursuant to Article IV, Section 2 of the Colorado Constitution and the relevant portions of the Colorado Disaster Emergency Act, C.R.S. § 24-33.5-701, et seq., I, Jared Polis, Governor of the State of Colorado, hereby issue this Executive Order declaring a state of disaster emergency due the Grizzly Creek Fire in Garfield and Eagle Counties and related damage to Interstate 70, enabling State agencies to coordinate and making resources available for fire suppression, response, consequence management, and recovery efforts. I. Background and Purpose The Governor is responsible for meeting the dangers to the State and people presented by disasters. C.R.S. § 24-33.5-704(1). The Colorado Disaster Emergency Act defines a disaster as “the occurrence or imminent threat of widespread or severe damages, injury, or loss of life or property resulting from any natural cause or cause of human origin, including but not limited to fire.” C.R.S § 24-33.5-703(3). The Grizzly Creek Fire started August 10, 2020, in Garfield County, and later spread to Eagle County. On August 12, 2020, fire behavior became very active due to weather and drought conditions with the fire burning in and near several large canyons which caused the shutdown of Interstate 70 (I-70) from Gypsum to Glenwood Springs. The fire spread was mapped at 4,624 acres, with zero percent containment, on federal, State, and private land.
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RERC Commnity Action Plan
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28 Fire Closure FOREST ORDER USDA
Order # WRNF-2020- 28 Fire Closure FOREST ORDER USDA FOREST SERVICE WHITE RIVER NATIONAL FOREST Eagle-Holy Cross, Aspen-Sopris, Rifle Ranger Districts FIRE CLOSURE Grizzly Creek Fire Area Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50 (a) and (b), the following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Grizzly Creek Fire Area on the White River National Forest, Eagle and Garfield Counties, State of Colorado (the “Restricted Area”) and described to the east boundary from the Colorado River Road near Dotsero and Sweetwater, to the south at the White River National Forest boundary in Glenwood Canyon, to the north at the southern boundary of the Flat Tops Wilderness Area, and to the west near Adams Lake. Lands include map sections: T.2s R.88w Sec.30-35; T.2S R.89W. Sec. 25-26; T.2S R.89W. Sec. 35-36; T.3S R.87W. Sec.19-20; T.3S R.87W. Sec. 4-9; T.3S R.87W. Sec.16-21; T.3S R.87W. Sec.28- 33; T.3S R.88W. Sec.1-13; T.3S R.88W. Sec.13-36; T.3S R.89W. Sec.1-2; T.3S R.89W. Sec.10- 15; T.3S R.89W. Sec.21-28 T.3S R.89W. Sec.33-36; T.4S R.87W. Sec.4-9; T.4S R.87W. Sec.17-20; T.4S R.87W. Sec.29-33; T.4S R.88W. Sec.1-36; T.4S R.89W. Sec.1-4; T.4S R.89W.
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CDOT Announces Limited Reopening of I-70 in Glenwood Canyon Travelers Urged to Be Aware of Weather Forecast and Potential for Intermittent Closures
CDOT announces limited reopening of I-70 in Glenwood Canyon Travelers urged to be aware of weather forecast and potential for intermittent closures STATEWIDE ― The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is announcing a limited reopening of Interstate 70 in Glenwood Canyon this morning. CDOT asks that motorists prepare for reduced speeds, no stopping in the canyon and closures due to mudslides and other events. CDOT also urges travelers to stay focused on the road and avoid distracted driving. The I-70 closure began Monday, Aug. 10, when the Grizzly Creek Fire started burning along the interstate. The closure was located between Glenwood Springs (Mile Point 116) and Gypsum (MP 140). Wildfires in other parts of Colorado continue to affect Colorado Highways 14 and 139. The Colorado Department of Transportation opened 1-70 in Glenwood Canyon on Monday morning. Travelers will encounter a lower speed limit and should anticipate more safety closures after rains or other weather. Motorists should also plan for not being able to stop at rest areas in the canyon, due to rockfall and other hazards. While on I-70 in Glenwood Canyon, it is critical for motorists to pay attention to the roadway, and follow signage and traffic guidance through the canyon. A head-to-head detour is in place between Hanging Lake Tunnel (Mile Point MP 125) and near No Name Tunnel (MP 117.6). This detour is on the eastbound deck, and is similar to the construction detour in place this summer during the Glenwood Canyon Phase 7 project. CDOT asks motorists to plan for additional travel time due to lower speed limits in the detour and elsewhere in the canyon.
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Soak in the Roaring Fork Valley 3 Days More Itineraries
Published on Colorado.com (https://www.colorado.com) Soak in the Roaring Fork Valley 3 days More Itineraries In the Roaring Fork Valley, experience outdoor thrills, see one of Colorado's most iconic natural treasures ? Hanging Lake ? and unwind in relaxing hot springs. Sustainability Activity How to Give Back to These Special Places: Lend a helping hand by volunteering or donating to the Glenwood Canyon Restoration Alliance. Founded after the 2020 Grizzly Creek Fire, the group is working on a multi-year project to help restore Glenwood Canyon, Hanging Lake, it's surrounding landscape and trails. Day 1 Insider's Tip Plan Ahead: Make a reservation to hike Hanging Lake in advance to make sure you get your desired time and a permit. ACTIVITY Hike to Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon Hanging Lake is a Colorado treasure and a rare example of a travertine geological formation located in the heart of Glenwood Canyon in the White River National Forest. The 1.2-mile trail is steep and rigorous but rewarding once you see the natural beauty that awaits you at the top. It?s a Natural National Landmark and is popular with travelers for its awe-inspiring beauty and gentle Colorado waterfalls. Make a reservation for a permit to hike to Hanging Lake. NOTE: Hanging Lake Trail is closed for the foreseeable future due to mudslides. LUNCH Slope & Hatch Taps, tacos, dogs and more. Fresh, affordable, chef-driven cuisine. ACTIVITY Glenwood Hot Springs Resort Located between Aspen and Vail, you'll find the World's Largest Hot Springs Pool! The Ute Indians called it Yampah, meaning "big medicine" because of its therapeutic qualities.
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Glenwood Caverns Kicks of Music On
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park reopens Friday, August 28, 2020, after being closed for fire mitigation Interstate 70, which had been closed through Glenwood Canyon, reopened Monday, August 24, making the trip to and from Glenwood Springs from the Front Range and points east faster and easier. GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. (August 26, 2020) — After being closed since August 13 for fire mitigation, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park reopens Friday, August 28. The mountain-top theme park overlooking Glenwood Springs, Colorado, served as a home base for some of the firefighting crews battling the Grizzly Creek Fire burning in Glenwood Canyon. According to the Grizzly Creek Fire Facebook page, as of this morning the fire is at 32,060 acres with 61 percent containment. Interstate 70, which had been closed through the canyon, reopened Monday, August 24. “We will forever be grateful for the incredible efforts of all of the crews battling this wildland fire,” Steve Beckley, who owns Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park with his wife Jeanne, said. “Watching them work to protect our park, our homes, our community and our beautiful mountain landscapes has shown us the dangers and challenges they face on a daily basis.” Hoping to show a measure of his appreciation, Beckley was able to give some of the firefighters a break from the heat and smoky air with private tours of Glenwood Caverns and the Historic Fairy Cave where the cool, clean air is always 52°F. Freshly baked fudge from the park’s Lookout Grille was a hit as well. The crews were also given around-the-clock access to the park’s visitor center for running water and restrooms.
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Scott Fitzwilliams
Order # WRNF-2020-38 Fire Closure FOREST ORDER USDA FOREST SERVICE WHITE RIVER NATIONAL FOREST Eagle-Holy Cross, Aspen-Sopris, Rifle Ranger Districts FIRE CLOSURE Grizzly Creek Fire Area Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50 (a) and (b), the following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the burned area perimeter of the Grizzly Creek Fire Area on the White River National Forest, Eagle and Garfield Counties, State of Colorado (the “Restricted Area”). The reduced closure area includes the area burned by the Grizzly Creek Fire (the fire perimeter). Hiking trails into the burned area including Hanging Lake, Grizzly Creek and No Name remain closed. The Colorado River recreation areas from Dotsero through Glenwood Canyon to No Name remain closed. The Restricted area is also depicted on the attached map, hereby incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A. The purposes of this Order are to: (1) provide for public safety; and (2) prevent interference with suppression repair and fire operations. PROHIBITIONS: This Order prohibits the following: Going into or occupying the Restricted Area until this Closure Order is rescinded. 36 C.F.R. § § 261.52(e). EXEMPTIONS: Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this order: 1) Any federal, state or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force, in the performance of an official duty; 2) Persons or entities with a written Forest Service exemption specifically exempting them from the effect of this Order. This Order supersedes, rescinds and replaces Order # WRNF-2020-37, issued on September 18th, 2020.
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Plan for Heavy Weekend Traffic on I-70, Likely Closures in Glenwood Canyon
Aug. 28, 2020 ― I-70 MOUNTAIN CORRIDOR TRAVEL ADVISORY― Plan for heavy weekend traffic on I-70, likely closures in Glenwood Canyon I-70 MOUNTAIN CORRIDOR ― Motorists should plan for heavy traffic on Interstate 70 this weekend and will encounter closures in Glenwood Canyon due to continuing repairs and weather impacts. Denver metro motorists heading into the mountains should expect variable conditions as well. A hazardous weather outlook has been issued for the central mountains, including I-70 and much of the Western Slope. The forecast includes rain and the potential for heavy rain on Saturday and Sunday, which could cause mudslides, debris flow or rockfall onto I-70 in Glenwood Canyon. Burn areas from the Grizzly Creek Fire have increased vulnerability for mudslides and rockfall. It is possible that any of those impacts could require a safety closure in the canyon. Ongoing repair work to power poles, by Xcel, will also likely require closures on Saturday in Glenwood Canyon. I-70 reopened on Monday after an extended closure due to the Grizzly Creek Fire. In addition to likely closures, motorists in Glenwood Canyon should be prepared for reduced speeds and no stopping in the canyon. Rest areas and the bike path continue to be closed for public safety. Highway closures can last for as little as a few minutes or for as long as several hours. When drivers set out on a trip, especially through high country roads or the I-70 mountain corridor, it would be wise to have the car supplied with an emergency kit. The kit should contain at the very minimum: water, snacks, flashlight, and a blanket.
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Scott Fitzwilliams
Order # WRNF-2020-34 Fire Closure FOREST ORDER USDA FOREST SERVICE WHITE RIVER NATIONAL FOREST Eagle-Holy Cross, Aspen-Sopris, RiFle Ranger Districts FIRE CLOSURE Grizzly CreeK Fire Area Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50 (a) and (b), the Following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Grizzly Creek Fire Area on the White River National Forest, Eagle and GarField Counties, State oF Colorado (the “Restricted Area”) and described as the east boundary From the Colorado River Road near Dotsero, south of FSR 600 CoFFee Pot road (CoFFee Pot Road is open), south oF FSR 601, and to the west oF and including, FSR 602 and FSR 637, and to the south at the White River National Forest boundary in Glenwood Canyon. The Restricted area is also depicted on the attached map, hereby incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A. The purposes oF this Order are to: (1) provide For public saFety; and (2) prevent interFerence with FireFighting operations. PROHIBITIONS: This Order prohibits the Following: Going into or occupying the Restricted Area until this Closure Order is rescinded. 36 C.F.R. § § 261.52(e). EXEMPTIONS: Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(e), the Following persons are exempt From this order: 1) Any Federal, state or local oFFicer, or member oF an organized rescue or FireFighting Force, in the perFormance oF an oFFicial duty; 2) Persons or entities with a written Forest Service exemption speciFically eXempting them From the eFFect oF this Order. This Order supersedes, rescinds and replaces Order # WRNF-2020-33, issued on September 3rd, 2020.
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2020-08-16-Grizzly-Creek-Fire-Smoke-Outlook.Pdf
Smoke Outlook for 8/16 - 8/17 West Central Colorado Grizzly Creek Fire Issued at: 2020-08-16 09:19 MDT WildFires The Grizzly Creek fire is now 19,129 acres and continuing to show extreme fire behavior. The Williams Fork fire is burning to the east and is 4,300 acres. To the west is the Pine Gulch fire, which is 76,183 acres. The Colorado River corridor along Interstate 70 is showing extremely dry conditions, and all three fires are contributing to the accumulated smoke in the area. Smoke Smoke in the atmosphere sinks with cooler temperatures, thus pooling in lower canyons and drainages at night. As the day heats, the smoke will rise and becomes more influenced by the daytime winds. This creates various smoke impacts at different times. For Glenwood Springs, expect smoke in the overnight hours and then again as it starts to rise around 10 am-11 am. The smoke will push out across the canyon mid-day and linger for several hours. For communities east of the Grizzly Creek fire expect smoke to move back in later this evening and tonight. Towns near Vail will see impacts from the Williams Fork fire, as smoke drifts into the area this afternoon and evening. Aspen can expect moderate conditions as a northerly wind pushes smoke that way. Overnight impacts will be worse. Health and Safety Daily AQI Forecast* for Aug 16, 2020 An Air Quality Health Advisory for wildfire smoke has been issued for many of the counties in the area. See the link towards the bottom of the page for more information.
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NEWS RELEASE Wildfire Ignites in Glenwood Canyon This Afternoon
NEWS RELEASE Aug. 10, 2020, 9 p.m. Contact: David Boyd, Public Information Officer, (970) 319-4895 Wildfire ignites in Glenwood Canyon this afternoon I-70 from Glenwood Springs to Gypsum will remain closed overnight GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. — This afternoon about 60 firefighters and numerous aircraft responded to the 1,300-acre Grizzly Creek Fire in Glenwood Canyon near the Grizzly Creek rest area, about five miles east of Glenwood Springs. The cause of the fire is under investigation. There are no immediate threats to structures and no evacuations are in place. Most of the firefighting effort this afternoon took place from the air because the rugged terrain and extreme fire behavior. This afternoon the air attack included two VLATs (very large air tankers), five LATs (large air tankers), five helicopters, and two SEATs (single engine air tankers). Interstate 70 is closed in both directions from Exit 116 (Glenwood Springs) to Exit 140 (Gypsum); alternate routes are advised. The highway will be reopened when it is safe to do so. The Forest Service is closing Coffee Pot Road outside of Dotsero and associated areas of the Flattops, as well as Hanging Lake. A map and more information about the closure will be posted tomorrow. The fire was first reported 1:29 p.m. today. Upon arrival the firefighters encountered large active flames in the I-70 median before the fire took a run up the north-facing slope. Supporting agencies include the Upper Colorado River Interagency Fire Management Unit, Glenwood Springs Fire Department, Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, Gypsum Fire Protection District, Roaring Fork Fire Rescue, Carbondale Fire and Rural Fire Protection District, Colorado River Fire Rescue, and the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control.
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Grizzly Creek Fire Update
Grizzly Creek Fire August 16, 2020 Update Yesterday’s Activity: Skies were clear early in the day as the inversion lifted causing higher temperatures and a more active fire. By midafternoon the fire on Fire Situation: Grizzly Creek Fire – 25,690 acres the north flank made a run from grizzly creek to Coffee Pot Road. The fire did spot across the road, but firefighters were able to catch it as the fuel types Start Date: Aug. 10 transitioned from timber to sage. Location: Glenwood Canyon Spot fires from the previous night grew together and moved towards Bair Ranch. Dozer line around Bair Ranch and structure protection measures, were Containment: 0% successful in holding back the fire resulting in no loss of structures. Fire on the southeast edge is holding just shy of Spruce ridge. Heavy smoke in late afternoon Resources: was due to the fire pushing between the Deadman canyon and Devil’s Hole Hand Crews: 15 Helicopters: 13 Canyon. The fire has moved to the canyon rim and is holding. Activity in the No Engines: 32 Name area was quiet as the containment lines held and crews worked to bring in Water Tenders: 7 water with hose lays and aerial water drops. Dozers 4 Feller bunchers and other logging Today’s Activity: Firefighters will continue implementing structure protection equipment measures around the gondola at Adventure Park and will move north to Transfer Total Personnel: 625 Trail with heavy equipment building indirect line. Crews will work to keep fire south of Coffee Pot Road by constructing and reinforcing control lines.
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