The Decker Fire, burning 9 miles south of Salida, was mapped yesterday at 1,095 acres, an increase of 78 acres.

Yesterday, west winds along with clear skies, warm temperatures, and low relative humidity caused the fire on the east side to become active.  A spot fire on the east side of Simmons Peak accounted for most of the fire’s growth.  The fire remains within the Wilderness on the east side of the fire. 

Crews have completed the contingency line between Bear Creek and along the Rainbow Trail.  Crews are working on the contingency line between Bear Creek and Columbine along the Rainbow Trail and on the west side of the fire between Saw Mill Gulch over to Round Hill Trail. 

Fire managers have ordered in a K-MAX helicopter that may be seen in the area.  K-MAX helicopters are unique looking and very capable of carrying heavy loads and high elevation.  They can fill their tank in 1-2 feet of water and carry 600 gallons of water to drop on fires.  This is a resource that will aid firefighters in herding the Decker Fire to stay in the Wilderness.

Today’s forecast calls for partly sunny skies, warm temperatures and slightly higher relative humidity.  The clouds and moderate increase in humidity are expected to temper the fire behavior a bit.  The dead and down fuel component continues to be the main driver for fire activity. 

The Decker Fire is being used to remove high risk fuels from the landscape to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire in the future. 

Fire and smoke will continue to be seen from Salida and the Highway 50 and 285 corridors.

There are no evacuations or closures at this time. 

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Dan R

Danny “Dan R” Ridenour has been in radio and television broadcasting for over 40 years, starting as a senior in high school in Rogers, Arkansas. His radio career has had stops in Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma, and eventually, Colorado. Dan enjoys being involved in the community, having been a member of the Upper Arkansas Service Club and is currently on the board of directors for the Salida Community Center and is a member of the Chaffee County Fair Committee. He and his wife Carrie spend their days doing everything the mountains have to offer: hiking, camping, fishing and skiing. They've raised 3 children and have 2 grandchildren.

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