For Immediate Release July 14, 2004
Contact  Steven Hall      970-640-3451

Fuel reduction project set for Mud Springs

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – A 1,000-acre fuel reduction project near the Bureau of Land Management Mud Springs Campground on 16.5 Road will begin Thursday, July 15, and should last several weeks.

The fuel reduction project will thin trees and brush in the Mud Springs area to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire. A hydro axe, mowing equipment and hand crews will work on the project. Heavy equipment will be in the campground for two weeks, with work scheduled Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Traffic restrictions and delays on 16.5 Road will be in effect July 19-23. Information on the project will be posted on the bulletin board across from the Glade Park Store on 16.5 Road. Because a hydro axe can fling chunks of wood up to 100 yards, the public should respect all warning signs and closures.

By reducing the density of trees and other vegetation, land managers can create defensible space in case of wildfire, while improving the health of the forest by promoting diversity in type and age of plants and trees in the area.

For more information on this project, contact Aline LaForge at 970-244-3038.

- BLM -