Crews complete first phase of wildfire mitigation project on conserved property

In an effort to mitigate the threat of wildfire, crews from the Western Colorado Conservation Corps have been out thinning overgrown vegetation on a conserved property in Plateau Valley.

The crews recently completed phase one of the wildfire mitigation project, which is being done in partnership with Colorado West Land Trust, the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) and Ute Water, according to a press release.

The focus is on managing the vegetation on the property to not only reduce wildfire risk, but also protect water infrastructure and enhance wildlife habitat. Gambel oak and juniper stands are thinned and masticated, which will reduce fire intensity, improve forest health and provide habitat for wildlife, including big game species, according to the release.

Crews are using a “mosa