On June 28th, at 3:49 p.m. staff at Mesa Verde’s Park Point Lookout tower observed a smoke plume on Park Mesa in Mesa Verde National Park. Named the Painted Kiva Fire, it is located east of the Cedar Tree Tower archaeological site.
Due to its location, nature of surrounding vegetation, steep access routes, and lack of safety zones for firefighters, the Mesa Verde Fire Management Office will use an “indirect attack” suppression strategy to manage this fire. There is a low threat to visitors, park infrastructure, and archaeological resources. All park facilities and trails remain open.
Should this fire become more visible, park staff will place informational signs on the park roads. Updated information will also be available at park facilities, and on the park’s website and Facebook pages as needed.
Source: NPS
