Hawkins Fire damage being assessed

This past Friday, the “Hawkins Fire,” which originated south of the Preserve, jumped McElmo Canyon and destroyed much of the riparian vegetation below the upper ridge. Thankfully, the Cortez Fire Department, with the aid of many area emergency response agencies, acted quickly and prevented the fire from spreading further. As of Monday, the fire has been declared 100% contained.

Plant life was saved above the rim

Future action may be needed below to prevent soil erosion and noxious weed invasion from impacting water quality.

Trees, shrubs and grasses on the bench did not escape the fire’s destruction

But there’s still plenty of beauty blooming and signs of spring showing in the Preserve