Colorado River and public lands reopen as Snyder Fire nears full containment

The Snyder Fire, which began on June 26 when several smaller blazes on the Colorado‑Utah border merged, has burned more than 30,200 acres in Mesa County, Colorado, and killed three wildland firefighters. As of July 7 the fire was 98% contained.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Bureau of Land Management announced that the segment of the Colorado River from the James M. Robb‑Colorado River State Park in Fruita to the Utah state line is open again, and the Fruita boat ramp has reopened for downstream traffic. The agencies also restored access to the Horsethief State Wildlife Area, Loma Boat Launch State Wildlife Area and other public lands. However, Stage 2 fire restrictions remain in place, prohibiting open flames, grills, and smoking except in designated areas, and violations are misdemeanor offenses.

Grand Junction Area Wildlife Manager Kirk Oldham thanked the public, saying, "We want to thank everyone for their support and patience during the closures." Officials warned that warm, dry conditions could keep fire danger at an extreme level despite the near‑complete containment.