Fire mitigation work begins in Colorado Springs open space

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) along with the Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) and City Forestry staff are working together to finish fire mitigation work in Stratton Open Space starting in August.

According to the City of Colorado Springs, Prevention efforts will include reducing critical fuels by trimming vegetation and chipping any dead and down woody debris along with the removal of dead and diseased standing vegetation.

“Fire mitigation work in open space areas not only helps protect the natural environment and wildlife, but it also reduces the risk of catastrophic wildfires that threaten nearby communities,” said Cory Ashby, Colorado Springs Fire Department wildfire program coordinator. “By creating defensible space and strategically managing vegetation, we aim to create a safer environment and greatly improve the overall resilience of Stratton Open Space ”

The City said more than 260 acres will be mitigated while maintaining the natural character of the open space. The park will remain open during mitigation but there may be intermittent closures of certain trails. The City asks users to follow all signs and detours, and trail users are asked to be careful around work areas.

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