The Hewlett Fire has been burning for a week, and it will take at least another day for it to be totally contained.
On Monday morning, fire officials reported the blaze north of Poudre Canyon is now 87 percent contained, with 100 percent containment expected by 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Rain on Saturday and water drops from three helicopters on Sunday helped halt the spread of the fire at 7,685 acres. The helicopters are still available if needed to take down remaining hot spots on Monday.
The number of personnel working the fire has been reduced to 371. Crews will focus on the east and northeast sides of the fire Monday.
The cost of fighting the Hewlett Fire, which was started accidently by a camper on the Hewlett Gulch Trail, is now estimated at $2.9 million.
For the latest fire information, call 970-498-1030 or log on to www.inciweb.org/incident/2863/.