Jefferson County to conduct prescribed burns in certain parks during fall, winter

DENVER (KDVR) — Jefferson County Parks & Open Space said Tuesday that it will be conducting prescribed pile burning in designated park locations during the fall and upcoming winter.

JCPOS said residents can expect pile burning to occur on “suitable” days between November and March, depending on the weather, air quality conditions and that there is at least four inches of snow cover.

JCPOS said the purpose of the prescribed burns is to reduce hazardous fuels, improve forest health and promote safe and more resilient natural areas for both visitors and wildlife.

“Prescribed fire is a critical tool for keeping our forests healthy and reducing the risk of large, unplanned wildfires,” said Steve Murdock, Natural Resources Stewardship Manager at JCPOS, in a statement.

The pile burning process involves igniting and managing stacks of woody debris that the agency said were created during both forest health management and wildfire mitigation projects.

The specific parks scheduled for pile burning include Aldefer/Three Sisters, Meyer Ranch and White Ranch Parks, according to JCPOS, which said signs will be posted at the parks and on variable message signboards.

Residents are warned that smoke and flames may be visible during the burning operations, and that residual smoke may linger for a short time afterward.

JCPOS said all prescribed burns will be monitored until declared fully extinguished and that it works closely with the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, Jefferson County Wildland Fire Management Program, local fire protection districts, and air quality officials to ensure operations meet strict safety and environmental standards.

“By reducing excess fuels in a controlled setting, we are creating safer conditions for our community and improving habitat for native plants and animals,” Murdock said.

Residents who would like more information about specific burn locations are advised to follow JCPOS on social media, visit its website, or look at individual park pages.