Fire Near Laramie Reaches 200 Acres (UPDATED)

(Photo: Trevor T. Trujillo, Townsquare Media)

The Roach fire, which sent plumes of smoke into the sky that were visible to Laramie residents on Monday, has burned 250 acres. This, according to a regional spokesman in Colorado.

“The Roach Fire is estimated at 250 acres and 10% contained,” says Reghan Cloudman, a Public Affairs spokes person for Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland.  The fire is located in the Old Roach area in the northwest portion of Larimer County, Colorado, approximately four miles west northwest of Hohnholtz Lake.

Cloudman goes on to say that the fire is three miles south of the Colorado-Wyoming line and is burning in the Roosevelt National Forest.  ”No structures are currently threatened,” Cloudman says.  ”The closest structure six miles away. The fire was active yesterday, particularly before noon. There was good air support of the fire yesterday and SEATs and helicopters will be utilized today as needed.”

Seven fire engines are on scene, along with a bulldozer, a water tender and three 20-person crews. Two additional 20-person crews are expected today. Four Single Engine Air Tankers (SEAT), a type 3 helicopter, a type 2 helicopter and air attack are available today. Approximately 100 people are working on the fire. There is good access in the area.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. It is burning in lodgepole pine in a mountain pine beetle hit area, with 50-70% mortality.