The West Fork Fire that started Aug. 8 is now 90% contained, according to New Mexico Bureau of Land Management officials.
The fire, which started about 8 miles north of Navajo Dam, has not grown since it expanded to 43 acres Aug. 7 into Aug. 8. It is exhibiting low fire behavior associated with winds produced by passing thunderstorms.
BLM fire crews and spokeswoman Jillian Aragon said it will likely be the last update to come from the fire because it is pretty well under control. However, crews still warn those recreating in the area steer clear of the site.
A lightning strike is believed to have started the fire.
BLM, along with San Juan County Fire and Rescue, responded by using four Type 6 engines, one water tender, one fire use module and one Type 2 hand crew, according to a news release.
Smoke is still visible from the Arboles and Pagosa Springs areas, and along U.S. Highways 64 and 550.
It had been a busy week for BLM fire crews, who also had to contain the Lake Fire near Navajo Lake. The Lake Fire reached 73 acres and was 90% contained as of Aug. 9.
While the Four Corners experienced some moisture over the weekend, it still remains dry, and fire hazards are high.
As of this past Thursday, much of Southwest Colorado is in either an abnormally dry or moderate drought state, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. All of San Juan County, New Mexico, is some form of drought status ranging from abnormally dry to severe, with the southeastern portion of the county entering severe drought status.
tbrown@durangoherald.com
