Evergreen Rotary promotes wildfire preparedness in Jefferson County

Residents of Conifer are urged to take proactive measures against the escalating wildfire threat following a recent town hall meeting on April 16, 2025. The meeting highlighted the alarming reality that Jefferson County is among the highest wildfire risk areas in Colorado and the United States.

Key discussions centered on the historical mismanagement of wildfire suppression, which has led to unhealthy tree overgrowth. Experts noted that while forests once maintained a balance of 40 to 60 trees per acre, current conditions show hundreds of trees per acre, increasing the intensity and spread of wildfires. This overgrowth, combined with climate change effects, has resulted in year-round wildfire risks, as evidenced by recent fires occurring outside traditional seasons.

The meeting emphasized the critical need for community-wide forest mitigation efforts. Residents were reminded that evacuation routes in the area are limited, posing significant risks during emergencies. The Marshall Fire evacuation, which affected 30,000 people, took several hours, raising concerns about the potential for catastrophic delays in a similar situation in Conifer.

To combat these challenges, community initiatives are underway. The Conifer Rotary is organizing volunteer days to thin vegetation along dangerous evacuation routes, particularly Highway 73, with events scheduled for May and June. Additionally, the Rotary has developed educational resources and early warning systems to enhance community preparedness.

Residents are encouraged to participate in these initiatives and to take personal responsibility for mitigating fire risks around their properties. The town hall underscored the importance of community engagement in creating resilient landscapes and ensuring safety in the face of increasing wildfire threats. For more information and resources, residents can visit the Conifer Area Council website or the Rotary Wildfire Ready website.