By Shannon Lukens for Steamboat Radio/Blizzard Broadcasting. Photos courtesy Bureau of Land Management. 

 

Be especially aware right now of burning for agriculture and debris. That’s the message from the Bureau of Land Management and Moffat County Sheriff’s Office. Low moisture this winter and the ongoing drought conditions have left more dead vegetation than usual.

 

If you plan to burn, let local emergency managers know. It’s required. Residents in Moffat County must call the Sheriff’s office first. The non-emergency dispatch number is 970-824-6501.

 

To burn safely, check the weather, know the fire restrictions, notify your neighbors, have a shovel and plenty of water close by, create a fire line, and never leave a burn unattended.

 

Anyone who lets a fire escape, that causes damage, could be held responsible.

 

More information is below, with good suggestions for everyone, no matter which county you are in.

 

 

News Release from Bureau of Land Management; March 13, 2026.

BLM, Moffat County officials urge safe agricultural, debris burning

CRAIG, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management and Moffat County Sheriff’s Office remind residents to follow safe agricultural and debris burning practices this season.

Low moisture during the winter and ongoing drought conditions has left more dead vegetation than usual, creating a higher risk for accidental wildfires. Simple steps can prevent a small burn from becoming a fast-moving wildfire.

Burn Responsibly

Keeping local emergency managers informed of your plans to conduct a controlled burn isn’t just a good idea, it’s required. Before starting any controlled burn on private property, all residents must call the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency dispatch at 970-824-6501. When you call, be prepared to provide your contact information and the date, time, and location of the controlled burn. (Colorado Revised Statute 29-22.5-105)

Burn Safely

• Check the weather: Do not burn on windy days. Always check the day’s forecast before planning a burn.
• Know fire restrictions: Conditions can change quickly. Check for local fire restrictions by contacting the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office or visiting the Colorado fire restrictions page or BLM Northwest District Fire Restrictions
• Notify neighbors: Let nearby residents know when and where you plan to burn to prevent unnecessary emergency calls.
• Have tools ready: Keep a shovel and plenty of water close by to control or extinguish the fire if needed.
• Create a fire line: Clear and dig a boundary around the burn area to prevent the fire from spreading.
• Stay with your fire: Never leave a burn unattended. Monitor it until it is completely out and cold to the touch.
• Be aware of smoke: Extended exposure to smoke from pile burns can affect your lung health. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment offers information about how smoke can impact your health and how to reduce exposure.

Legal Responsibilities

Anyone who lets a fire escape and damage private, state, or federal lands may face fines and be responsible for all suppression costs. Officials urge residents to burn safely to protect their property, neighbors, and public lands.

 

Fire Restrictions Resources Online:

• Moffat County Sheriff’s Office: https://crimewatch.net/us/co/moffat/sheriff
• Colorado Fire Restrictions (with map): http://www.coemergency.com/p/fire-bans-danger.html
• BLM Northwest District Fire Restrictions: https://www.blm.gov/programs/fire/regional-info/colorado/northwest-district