This will be the last Split Top Fire update unless there is a dramatic change in fire activity.
STATUS
Estimated Acres Burned: 425
Estimated Percent Contained: 50
Expected Full Containment: To Be Determined
Cause: Lightning
Date Started: Aug. 25, 2008
Structures Threatened: None
Estimated Costs to Date: $35,794
RESOURCES
Engines: 0
Helicopters: 1
Dozers: 0
Water Tenders: 0
Total Resources Assigned: 19
Overview: This summer Dinosaur National Monument is using a range of strategies in response to wildfires based on current and predicted risks, values to be protected, and land management objectives. The north and west perimeter of the Split Top Fire on Split Mountain has been suppressed due to its close proximity to the monument boundary with the Bureau of Land Management. The east and south perimeter of the fire is being allowed to burn, much as fire historically has in the area to benefit plant and wildlife communities. The flexibility of being able to use multiple strategies enables fire managers to put firefighters where they can do the most good and where they are needed most, while increasing firefighter safety and reducing suppression costs.
Saturday’s Activities: Firefighters continued to work on the north and west flanks of the fire to stop movement, observed very little activity. The fire mainly burned in Ponderosa Pine on the east side. Minimum impact management techniques were used to contain and confine the fire within the boundaries of the monument.
Planned Activities: Crews will use minimum impact management techniques to contain and confine the fire within the boundaries of the monument. The monument will continue to monitor the fire and will take action and/or bring in additional resources as needed.
Weather Forecast: The forecast calls for a weather system with the potential for cooler temperatures, high winds, and rainfall to move into the area late Saturday or Sunday.
Remarks: Smoke may be visible within the fire area for several days. No closures are in place.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
