Information provided by BLM PIO Contact: Lynn Barclay, 970-329-1038 or 970-826-5096.
The Alkali Fire was reported at 2:30 p.m. today on private land 14 miles north of Maybell in Moffat County. The fire made significant runs through sagebrush and grass earlier today jumping county roads and emitting embers which started spot fires. Spread potential of fire remains high.
Evacuated ahead of the fast-moving flame-front by the were three people. A homestead, used as a part-time residence, and a barn were burned. There are also pipelines in the area which pose a concern for firefighters.
“The biggest challenge for firefighters is shifting wind from thunder cells and dry fuels,” said Incident Commander Todd Wheeler with the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office. “Safety to firefighters and citizens in the area is our top priority.”
Assigned to the incident are: Three Moffat County engines; One Craig Fire Rescue engine; one Bureau of Land Management engine; one Browns Park Refuge engine; one single engine air tanker; two Moffat County water tenders; and two Moffat County road maintainers.
Arriving tomorrow will be two 20-person Colorado State Wildfire Crews and two additional Moffat County road maintainers.
Fire cause is undetermined. One firefighter reported to have received minor smoke inhalation. No containment time has been established.
