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BLM Colorado closes public lands in Mesa County due to active fire

Upper Colorado River DO
Grand Junction FO
Media Contact
Heather Marsh, BLM Colorado Comms Team
970-852-9272
BLM Office:
Upper Colorado River District Office

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — The Bureau of Land Management announces an immediate temporary closure of certain public lands in Mesa County because of fire activity in the area. The order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until the Turner Gulch Fire is declared controlled or until this order is rescinded.

This emergency closure is necessary to ensure public and firefighter safety during firefighting activities and initial suppression rehabilitation efforts.

Lands affected are in and south of Unaweep Canyon. The closed area is defined by all lands:

  • East of Niche Road
  • West of Divide Road
  • North of the Grand Mesa Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest boundary
  • South of Highway 141

Exceptions to the Closure

This closure will remain in place until safe access can be ensured. All public access to these lands is prohibited, with specific exemptions for:

  • Federal, state, and local officers and employees in the performance of their official duties
  • Members of organized rescue or fire-fighting forces in the performance of their official duties
  • People with written authorization from the BLM

Legal Penalties

Violations of this emergency order may lead to prosecution, with fines and possible imprisonment. Vehicles found in violation may be towed.

Additional details and a closure map will be available on the Upper Colorado River District Fire Restrictions webpage. 

We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize safety and resource integrity during this critical time. For further information, please contact the Grand Junction Field Office Front Desk at 970-244-3000.

 

Related Files

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.