ASEPN ACRES FIRE UPDATE – MID-DAY, MONDAY, JULY 6
I just got off the phone with John Christenson who’s family lives on Old San Isabel Road in big bend that you see where the newly mapped area is. John and his wife’s businesses and home is still standing. They run Native Lumber and have a gorgeous wedding venue called Brush Canyon Ranch.
John shared with me, through occasional tears, his story of last week, remaining on the property to run dozer lines where he could to try and protect what they’ve worked so hard to build.
John is a former wildland firefighter and knew that he possessed the knowledge to know when it was time to go – and Friday was that time when the fire came in from the north and east. There are meadows near and in the property that helped to slow the fire and steer it through surrounding areas where there was more fuel. The fire continued to the west of them and is part of the fire that has now crossed highway 165 south of San Isabel.
John told me of some really hard it areas near them. It’s not my place to share those specific locations, but he also shares that there are untouched residences less than 100 yards from places that are no longer standing.
John also shared with me some of the discussions he has had with section chiefs managing the fire and some of the incredible behavior this fire has exhibited in its growth and movement. “This one will be in the instruction books,” John expressed near the end of our call.
We may be able to speak to him on Peaks2Plains Weather in the next day or two. He’s exhausted and there is more work to do. I was honored to spend 20 minutes with him on the phone as we hit the noon hour.
There are many stories like this one on all sides of the fire. This is a life-changing event and I know you join me in standing with our neighbors who are impacted by this fire. I know you join me in being grateful for those that are helping with and directly fighting the fire. I know you join me in thanking those that are providing food, clothes, and a place to stay for those who aren’t able to be home.
