Rich Garner, Rio Blanco County Emergency Manager: May 4, 2026

I write today not only as Rio Blanco County's Emergency Manager, but as a neighbor and friend. While we all value the beautiful and remote lifestyle that makes Rio Blanco County such a special place to live, this winter has presented a concerning reality: current snowpack levels are approximately 63% of the historical median. As spring arrives, these drier-than-normal conditions mean vegetation across the county will dry out earlier than usual, increasing the likelihood of an early and potentially intense wildfire season.

With reduced moisture in the landscape, fine fuels—such as grasses, brush, and leaf litter—will become receptive to fire weeks ahead of schedule. This creates an elevated risk to homes, infrastructure, and natural resources throughout the county.

Wildfire mitigation is not about preventing wildfire entirely—it is about hardening your home and property so it can withstand ember exposure or a passing ground fire. During a major incident, emergency responders will prioritize life safety, and resources may be limited. Taking steps now can make a critical difference.

Create Defensible Space

  • Clear flammable materials within the first 0–5 feet around your home
  • Space out trees and shrubs to reduce fire spread
  • Remove dead vegetation, leaf litter, and dry grasses
  • Eliminate “ladder fuels” that allow fire to climb from the ground into trees

Maintain Vegetation

  • Mow grasses regularly—fine fuels will dry out earlier than normal this year
  • Trim tree branches to reduce vertical and horizontal fire spread
  • Remove brush piles and downed limbs
  • Thin dense vegetation to reduce intensity if a fire approaches

Harden Your Home

  • Clean roofs, gutters, and decks of leaves and debris
  • Screen vents and openings to prevent ember entry
  • Enclose or clear under decks and around foundations
  • Use non-combustible materials where possible

Manage Materials and Equipment

  • Store firewood, propane tanks, and combustible materials away from structures
  • Keep vehicles and equipment clear of dry grass buildup
  • Maintain cleared space around outbuildings and storage areas

Ensure Access for Emergency Response

  • Keep driveways clear and wide enough for fire apparatus
  • Trim overhanging branches along access routes
  • Clearly mark your address for visibility from the road

Burn Safely

  • When fire restrictions are not in effect, controlled burns are allowed in Rio Blanco County and the Town of Rangely, but not within Meeker city limits
  • Do not burn on windy days—always check weather conditions
  • Stay current on fire restrictions
  • Notify neighbors before burning
  • Keep water, tools, and a fire line in place
  • Never leave a fire unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished

Legal Responsibilities

Residents are reminded that anyone who allows a fire to escape and cause damage to private, state, or federal land may be held financially responsible for suppression costs and may face legal penalties. Burning safely protects not only your property, but your neighbors, responders, and public lands.