Dolores County

As the Ferris Fire burns through Dolores River Canyon, local river advocates are raising concerns about old-growth ponderosa pines, low flows, native fish, sediment, recreation access and long-term ecological impacts.

The Ferris Fire northwest of Dolores is more than 56,000 acres and 22% contained. At a Dove Creek meeting, officials explained how steep terrain, dry fuels, weather and limited access are shaping the firefighting strategy.

The Ferris Fire northwest of Dolores is about 51,000 acres and 21% contained. Fire activity has increased in Dolores River Canyon, and Dolores County has added Zones 13 and 14 to SET status.

As wildfires rage across the West, many municipalities are cancelling their fireworks displays, while others are not.

The Ferris Fire northwest of Dolores continues to grow as evacuations continue.

A new pilot program will bring fresh, locally grown produce to food pantries in Montezuma and Dolores counties and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Nation, while giving a local farmer a more dependable market for his crops.

Evacuation orders remain in place as the Ferris, Far Draw and Doe Canyon fires burn in western Montezuma and Dolores counties. Additional fires are also active in southeastern Utah.

The Pantry Produce Share Program will provide fresh, locally grown produce to food pantries in Montezuma and Dolores counties and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Nation. In Dolores, the library district board has voted to terminate Executive Director Sean Gantt’s contract after discussing a third-party workplace assessment.

The Montelores Coalition’s first Strike Team projects will support cleanup at Hawkins Preserve, Mancos River restoration and derelict fence removal near Rico.

Because of an enforcement order issued by the state, the Town of Dove Creek soon will be getting its water from a new source. That decision has led to a price increase that made some town residents so angry that the Town Hall has closed because of threats to staff.