News Release
Southern Ute Indian Tribe
Location: On the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, north of Bear Dance Grounds
Started: Friday, June 3, 2022
Cause: Under Investigation
Fire Size June 5: 89 acres
Containment: 82%
Structures Lost: 0
Ground Resources: 89 firefighters total, 3 crews, 10 engines
Air Operations: A full complement of air resources is available in the fire area, and aircraft are ordered as needed
Evacuation Information: All pre-evacuations have been lifted. There are no evaluations at this time.
Follow Southern Ute Indian Tribe on social media or BIA Fire Management 970.563.4571
Closures: Ute Park Road between CR 517 and Bear Dance Road. The SunUte Multi-Purpose Park also remains closed. Be alert to changing conditions and fire vehicles.
Temporary Flight Restriction: There are no temporary flight restrictions related to the Bear Dance Fire.
Management: Southern Ute led Durango Interagency Type 3 Team
Summary
The Bear Dance Fire started at approximately 12:23 p.m. on June 3. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The fire to 89 acres and is now 82% contained.
To observe the air quality status, please visit the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s Air Quality Ambient Monitor page at https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/justice-and-regulatory/ epd/air-quality/ambient-monitoring/
Crews continue working to improve containment lines and removing hazards in the popular recreational area. Personnel are working safely to prepare the parks for use, please stay away from the area while the work is completed. No structures have been lost and no injuries were reported.
The reservation remains in Stage I Fire Restrictions. Drones are strictly prohibited in the fire area. Please see the attached map for the fire burn area.
Fire Conditions & Weather
Fire Conditions are dry and can support fire growth and new fire starts. Fuels remain critically dry due to the mega drought conditions.
Temperatures today are expected to be between 82- 92 degrees. Winds are expected to be 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon with gusts up to 24 mph..
