June 29, 2012 - OSMP closures remain in effect to help firefighting efforts

Contacts:
Sarah Huntley, Media Relations, 303-441-3155
www.bouldercolorado.gov 

OSMP closures remain in effect to help firefighting efforts

Despite the success of firefighting efforts over the past few days, the Flagstaff Fire remains active. Aggressive suppression activities, including the intentional burning of remaining fuels inside the fire perimeter, as well as aircraft water and suppressant drops, will continue at least through Saturday, June 30.

To provide for public safety and unimpeded access for firefighting activities, all Open Space and Mountain lands between Flagstaff Road and Eldorado Springs Drive will remain closed west of Broadway. Conditions will be assessed regularly and access will resume as areas become safe for both the public and ongoing firefighting.

In addition, the City of Boulder is urging users of other parts of Open Space and Mountain Parks to exercise caution given the extreme fire risk that remains across the region. Please be sure you are aware of your surroundings and have at least one alternate way of leaving the area quickly, should conditions warrant. All sources of ignition, including fireworks, smoking materials, lighters, grills and campfires, are prohibited.

As officials gear up for the 4^th of July holiday, additional or continued closures are anticipated. Even if the existing closures are lifted before then, visitors to Open Space should know that Flagstaff Road will be closed from 3 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4. After 3 p.m. that day, only residents of Flagstaff Road will be allowed beyond the closure west of 6^th Street and Baseline Road.

“This has been a practice of the city for about the last 20 years,” said Mike Patton, director of Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks Department. “Fires in the region, including the Flagstaff Fire on Bear Peak, make it clear that we have to continue being really careful about fire prevention on Open Space.”

It has become a Boulder tradition to view fireworks from several Open Space locations around the city. However, this year the firework displays have been cancelled. The public is advised that possession of fireworks is prohibited within city limits and anywhere on Open Space lands. Fireworks, if found, will be confiscated and a summons will be issued to anyone found with fireworks in the city or on open space.

Violations of the fireworks ban or closures on Open Space carry fines and penalties up to $1,000 and 90 days in jail.

For information about the weekend closures, as well as those planned for July 4, visit www.osmp.org or call 303-441-3440. 

Last Updated on Tuesday, 10 July 2012 10:38