How You Can Help
Wildfire season started early and strong in Colorado this year and is impacting communities far and wide. The best way to support Colorado destinations affected by wildfires is to plan a trip to experience the destination, but there are also opportunities to directly assist those affected by the fires. Several charitable organizations are offering ways to give back to those impacted by the state’s wildfires.
The current wildfires burning across the state are being contained, which would not be possible without our incredible firefighters and first responders. The Colorado Tourism Office appreciates everything they do to protect our state’s communities and natural resources.
Read this article on wildfire-prevention tips >>
Spring Creek Fire
Fire Start Date: June 27, 2018
Location: Approximately five miles east of Fort Garland and continues to move east toward Highway 160 and the community of La Veta.
The Spanish Peaks Community Foundation has set up the Spring Fire Relief Fund for victims of the Spring Fire. Donations may be made online at springfireco.org
Checks can be mailed to the Spanish Peaks Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1101, Walsenburg, CO 81089. Please make checks payable to Spanish Peaks Community Foundation (SPCF) with memo Spring Fire Relief Fund and deliver to Spanish Peaks Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1101, Walsenburg, CO 81089.
Checks or cash can be deposited in person at the First National Bank of Trinidad in Trinidad, in Walsenburg at the Huerfano Branch, or in Raton.
Disaster relief donations can also be made to the Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado. Volunteer opportunities are also available through Care and Share.
Visiting the Area:
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Rio Grande National Forest and San Juan National Forest are open with Stage II fire restrictions. Stop by the Colorado Welcome Center in Alamosa at 610 State Ave. Alamosa, CO 81101 or visit http://www.sanluisvalley.org for area activity suggestions and alternatives or give them a call at 800-258-7597 (toll free) or 719-589-9396 (local).
416 Fire
Report Date: June 1, 2018
Location: La Plata County, located on the San Juan National Forest approximately 10–13 miles north of Durango, along the west side of US Highway 550
The Community Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) is accepting financial contributions for the 416 Fire. You can donate online at our website: swcommunityfoundation.org. Click donate, and add CERF as special instructions to seller. Or donate in person at the Bank of the San Juans (144 E. 8th Street). An Advisory Committee of local stakeholders will distribute funds as needed.
The Durango Food Bank is accepting donations of non-perishable items to distribute to evacuees. Monetary donations are also accepted. Donations are tax-deductible. Contact the food bank at (970) 375-2672 or email [email protected].
La Plata County Humane Society is providing sheltering to displaced pets. Visit their website to find out how to volunteer or support their efforts with a donation.
Visiting Southwest Colorado:
Southwestern Colorado is open for business with countless recreational opportunities available. Most of Durango's businesses and attractions have not been affected by the fire. Follow @VisitDurango on Facebook and Instagram to see unaffected summertime activities and adventure inspiration. Stop by or call the Durango Welcome Center at 802 Main Avenue or 800-525-8855 for alternate activity suggestions.
For ideas on recreational and tourism opportunities in other areas of southwest Colorado, please visit the following websites:
La Plata County: https://www.colorado.com/association/la-plata-county
San Juan County: http://www.sanjuancountycolorado.us/index.html
Silverton, CO Chamber of Commerce: http://www.silvertoncolorado.com
Statewide Recovery
The Salvation Army, American Red Cross and Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, are accepting donations to benefit wildfire recovery efforts across the state. If donating to the American Red Cross, please specify your donation for the local chapter.
For more information about major fires currently burning in Colorado, visit https://www.colorado.com/wildfireinfo.