Bucktail Fire update; Blaze grows over 7,000 acres as crews continue interior burning to reduce understory vegetation

MONTROSE COUNTY, Colo. (KREX) — Although the Bucktail Fire expanded to 7,177 acres Friday, containment is expected to increase in the following days, according to Montrose County.

The county reported the wildfire, which is at 10% containment, grew due to helicopters conducting interior burning to support a low-intensity fire that reduces understory vegetation. Understory vegetation is underlying plants found in forests or wooded areas.

The method of igniting fires and burnout operations controls the speed, intensity and overall wildfire behavior, according to the county. Due to these operations, additional smoke filled the air around the Grand Valley.

Montrose County also reminded the public that everyone should “be attentive to their actions and surroundings, especially in areas with dry vegetation or dead/down trees. Preventing new fires is the most important thing anyone can do to help firefighters. Practice smart wildfire prevention behavior including never leaving a campfire unattended, and ensuring fires are completely out and cold. Make sure trailer chains don’t drag and dispose of smoking materials properly. Every spark can start a fire!”

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