The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department, in coordination with The Nature Conservancy, will be conducting two prescribed fires at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, weather permitting. The burns are scheduled for October 9-19. The two burns total 715 acres and will take place in the southern portion of Soapstone Prairie Natural Area.
The purpose of these burns is to use fire to promote habitat for mountain plover, a federally endangered grassland bird. Historic mountain plover nesting sites are within the burn area. The entire natural area will be closed on the day of the burn for the safety of citizens. Please check the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department website, www.fcgov.com/naturalareas for the most up to date information for closure details.
Smoke advisory signs will be posted along roads, trails, at the entrance station, and parking lots. A Natural Areas Department representative will inform visitors of the prescribed fire and closures. Officials will closely monitor smoke dispersal to avoid impacts to motorists and residents. To mitigate concerns, the Natural Areas Department will burn only under advantageous conditions.
Concerns or questions regarding this burn can be directed to Rick Bachand (Environmental Program Manager) at 970-416-2183 or the Natural Areas Department at 970-416-2815.
Support Northern Colorado Journalism
Show your support for North Forty News by helping us produce more content. It's a kind and simple gesture that will help us continue to bring more content to you.
BONUS - Donors get a link in their receipt to sign up for our once-per-week instant text messaging alert. Get your e-copy of North Forty News the moment it is released!
Click to Donate