The Colorado State Forest Service is the state agency responsible for wildland fires throughout Colorado.  According to The CSFS:

"The prairie ecosystems of Colorado sustain some of the most diverse wildlife populations in the state, and are home to unique hunting and recreational opportunities. In addition, the Colorado plains support a vibrant and vigorous agricultural economy, sustaining local economies and producing food for our nation.

Much of the eastern half of Colorado is part of the Great Plains, a unique grassland prairie ecosystem that extends from Northern Canada to Southern Texas and east from the Rocky Mountain. Prior to settlement, wildfires played a frequent and important role in preserving these ecosystems. Agriculture and development altered this ecosystem and shaped it into today's plains.

Forests on the Colorado plains include riparian forests along the major river corridors, agroforestry plantings for windbreaks and shelterbelts on agricultural lands, plantings for various wildlife and recreational areas, and community forests in cities and towns. Except for the naturally occurring riparian forests, most of the trees on the plains have been planted to modify the harsh, windy environment and make it more suitable for humans, animals and crop production.

As Colorado's population continues to grow, significant and rapid construction expands into once "wild" prairie and forested landscapes. The increasing number of homes and traffic in these areas brings a heightened risk of accidental fire starts and escapes. Grasses are dry during much of the year; they ignite quickly and fire spreads rapidly. Having your home or property on or adjacent to these abundant dry fuels puts you and your property at risk. Residents need to know what measures to take to help reduce wildfire risks

The Fire Wise Program educates homeownerson how to make their homes and property safer from wildfires.  The logo on the left is a link to helpful information and guidance that can be used to help mitigate for wildland fires in the Eastern Plains of Colorado.

Individuals living within the wildland/urban interface can take steps to reduce the risk of fire losses. For example, you can create a Safety Zone around your home or business by doing the following:

• Stack firewood at least 100 feet away and uphill from your home.
• Clear combustible material within 20 feet.
• Mow grass regularly.
• Rake leaves, dead limbs and twigs. Clear all flammable vegetation.
• Remove leaves and rubbish from under structures..
• Remove vines from the walls of the home.
• Remove dead branches that extend over the roof.
• Prune tree branches and shrubs within 15 feet of a stovepipe or chimney outlet.
• Ask the power company to clear branches from power lines.

What do I do?

Be aware of fire risks and take responsibility for your use of fire.

• Be careful with smokes and campfires - only build fires in rings or grates.
• Use self-contained cookers or chemical stoves.
• Keep hot mufflers and catalytic converters clear of grasses and shrubs.
• Burn debris with care.
• If you see smoke or a fire, call the county sheriff 's office first. They will notify the correct agencies.
• Think about where you would go to flee a fire, what you would take, how you would get out, and an alternate route out in case the one you're planning on is blocked--it's the same kind of planning you do with your family for escaping a fire in your home.
• Know your personal limitations. Don't put yourself or others at risk

Important Information in case of Evacuation