The U.S. Forest Service Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands announced Aug. 26 that the La Plata Fire is being transitioned back to the Leadville Ranger District.
PSICC thanked the local communities in both Chaffee and Lake Counties, especially Twin Lakes and Leadville, for their patience and support while firefighters worked to protect their homes and water and other important values.
As of Tuesday morning, the La Plata Fire at the border of Chaffee and Lake Counties was reported to be at 133 acres and 44% containment.
The fire was determined to be human-caused by an abandoned campfire, and 58 personnel are working on the fire.
PSICC encourages anyone with any potential information about the cause of the fire to email sm.fs.psiccpa@usda.gov with “La Plata Fire Information” in the subject line.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife asks hunters to respect closures in place for their safety and the safety of fire crews. For additional information on alternative access locations, please visit the Colorado Hunting Atlas online or contact your local CPW office.
A closure order is now in effect on the Pike-San Isabel Forest around the La Plata Fire to protect public health and safety during firefighting operations.
Follow fire restrictions when recreating in the high country. Fires should be cold to the touch before they are left. Learn more at smokeybear.com/campfire-safety.
Fire danger is still moderate to high across PSICC. Chaffee County, including the towns of Buena Vista and Poncha Springs, is under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions.