The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is taking steps to reduce wildfire risk along the state’s highway network. The department has implemented contingency plans to protect travelers and communities if fire conditions deteriorate, accelerated its roadside vegetation management program, and expanded coordination with partner agencies.
The department’s meteorologists predict an above-normal potential this summer for significant fires across much of Colorado, especially in the mountains and foothills. Dry, unmowed grass and dense brush along highway shoulders are common ignition points for roadside wildfires.
“Our highway corridors run through some of the most fire-prone landscapes in the country,” Bob Fifer, CDOT deputy director of operations, said. “We have a responsibility not only to keep roads open, but to make sure our right of way isn’t contributing to the fire problem. This year, with drought conditions already taking hold across Colorado, we’re moving earlier and working harder to get ahead of the risk.”
Maintenance crews are accelerating mowing, brush clearing and vegetation treatment in areas the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control identified as elevated fire threat zones. In areas where topography and traffic volume increase ignition and spread risk, CDOT is expanding the use of herbicide treatment and mechanical brush removal along road shoulders.