Rocky Mountain Arsenal Conducts Prescribed Burn

The wildlife refuge will perform a controlled burn in the area on Wednesday.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Safety

Rocky Mountain Arsenal Conducts Prescribed Burn

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Do you support the use of prescribed burns to manage land in your community?

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is conducting a prescribed burn on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. The refuge has requested that the public avoid calling 911 if they see smoke rising from the area.

Why it matters

Prescribed burns are managed operations designed to clear vegetation and maintain the landscape. Keeping the public informed helps prevent unnecessary emergency responses during these controlled activities.

The prescribed burn is located at 6550 Gateway Rd, just east of Commerce City. While smoke may be visible to residents, the site remains open to the public, including Wildlife Drive and the refuge trails.

The players

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

This is a federally managed nature preserve that protects local wildlife and habitat.

South Adams County Fire Department

This agency provides fire protection and emergency medical services to the local community.

The details

A coalition of local agencies including the South Adams County Fire Department, Evergreen Fire Protection District, the James Peak Module, and the Frederick-Firestone Fire Protection District Station 1 will administer the burn. The event is set to proceed while maintaining public access to facility amenities.

The prescribed burn takes place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

Seasonal Patterns

This controlled operation follows standard land management protocols mandated by the National Environmental Policy Act to promote habitat health. It aligns with historical patterns of managing forest and grassland fuels through controlled fire during the autumn season.

Residents near the refuge should not call 911 if they notice smoke, as this is a planned event. Despite the active fire management, visitors can still utilize Wildlife Drive and the walking trails.

The takeaway

Controlled burns are an essential tool for land management and reducing future fire risks. Being aware of official announcements prevents public alarm and allows emergency services to remain focused on actual threats.