Rio Grande County Emergency Management

07/21/2026

Latest update.

🔥Wildfire Update: There was no additional growth today on the Schrader Fire.

📍Located 12 miles Southwest of Del Norte and on the east side of Del Norte Peak, the Schrader Fire sits at 10 acres. Crews continued work today and expect 100% containment by tomorrow afternoon.

⚠Remember, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect on the Rio Grande National Forest. More info at www.fs.usda.gov/r02/riogrande/alerts. For air quality conditions in your area, visit www.airnow.gov. For more information about the Rio Grande National Forest visit www.fs.usda.gov/r02/riogrande

07/20/2026

The Schrader Creek Fire is being managed by the U.S. Forest Service-Rio Grande National Forest. They are providing updates and all official communication.

07/20/2026

Heli tanker N4035S stopped in Del Norte for fuel after dropping several loads of water on the Schrader Creek Fire. Thank you guys! 🙏 Great work! Fly safe!

07/19/2026

07/13/2026

RESTON, Va. – The U.S. Geological Survey plans low-level helicopter flights over southern Colorado to image geology using airborne geophysical technology. The survey will begin in June and continue for two months, weather and other flight restrictions permitting.

07/08/2026

This is the helicopter everyone is seeing flying low-level around the county.

RESTON, Va. – The U.S. Geological Survey plans low-level helicopter flights over southern Colorado to image geology using airborne geophysical technology. The survey will begin in June and continue for two months, weather and other flight restrictions permitting.

07/08/2026

07/03/2026

STAGE 2 Fire Restriction in effect starting July 4 on the Rio Grande National Forest
1. No fires except a device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned off that is used in an area cleared of all flammable materials within 3 feet.
2. Smoking is prohibited, except in an enclosed vehicle or building.
3. No welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame.
4. Possessing or using a motor vehicle off of National Forest System roads, except when parking in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the motor vehicle is prohibited.
5. Explosives are always illegal on public lands.
Forest Order, map and more information at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/riogrande/alerts

07/02/2026

Do your part to prevent wildfire.

As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, remember that fireworks are prohibited on public lands.

Possessing, igniting, discharging or using any kind of fireworks is prohibited on national forests and grasslands.