As devastating wildfires that are burning around Colorado pose risks to life, landscapes, and property, there have been plenty of impacts related to outdoor recreation, as well.

One notable impact was the June 29 emergency closure of the Colorado River from the James M. Robb-Colorado River State Park in Fruita to the Utah state line. This move follows a mass evacuation of boaters along the stretch of river that runs between Loma, Colorado and Westwater, Utah over the weekend.

According to Mesa County Search and Rescue, the Snyder Fire was rapidly spreading toward the Colorado River, which prompted a hefty response that involved evacuating 120 boaters and six dogs. The evacuation went well and there were no injuries.

Evacuated boaters were taken to riverside campsites and then from riverside campsites to a rail intersection that’s located in Mack, Colorado. An emergency bus system was then used to further transport the evacuees to safety. Union Pacific rail company played a key role in the evacuation effort given how low water levels of the river prevented several traditional evacuation tactics from being implemented. The company provided high-rail vehicles and mobilized other resources. During the evacuation, Union Pacific personnel provided fire overwatch, along with BLM rangers.

With the closure the stretch of the Colorado River from James M. Robb-Colorado River State Park to the Utah state line in place until further notice, all boating and floating activities are prohibited. Those traveling the river will need to end their float at Grand Junction’s Blue Heron boat launch or farther upstream. It’s expected that the closure will remain in place at least through the Fourth of July Weekend.

Other closures in the area include Horsethief State Wildlife Area and Loma Boat Launch State Wildlife Area.

At last report, the Snyder Fire was estimated to be more than 29,000 acres with no containment.

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