BLM Tres Rios Field Office reduces fire restrictions, Ferris Fire closure area

DOLORES, Colo. – Improved fire weather conditions and near-containment on the Ferris Fire have prompted Bureau of Land Management officials to ease fire restrictions and reopen public lands within the Tres Rios Field Office.

Effective July 22, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions will be lifted on BLM-administered public lands managed by the Tres Rios Field Office, including Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will remain in effect through Dec. 31, 2026, or until rescinded.

Stage 1 restrictions prohibit campfires, charcoal fires, and other open fires outside designated fire grates or grills in developed recreation sites. Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or developed recreation site. Fireworks and other incendiary devices are also prohibited.

“Seasonal weather conditions in southwest Colorado have brought increased moisture and more favorable fire conditions, allowing us to reduce fire restrictions,” said Tres Rios Field Office Manager Derek Padilla. “Fire danger still exists, and we encourage everyone visiting public lands to use caution and do their part to prevent human-caused wildfires.”

With the Ferris Fire approaching 100% containment, the BLM is also reducing most emergency public land closures in Dolores County. All previous Ferris Fire closure areas on BLM-administered public lands within the Tres Rios Field Office have been reopened, except for a smaller area that remains closed to support ongoing fire management and protect public and firefighter safety. The remaining closure includes BLM-administered public lands in the vicinity of the Dolores River Canyon and Bradfield Bridge Recreation Site.

For specific closure boundaries, maps, and current fire restrictions, visit Colorado’s Southwest District Fire Management website at https://ow.ly/wjpK50ZitFU.