Aspen's Sunnyside Prescribed Fire

The 900-acre Sunnyside Prescribed Fire was ignited on April 14, 2025 on the south face of Red Mountain. This initiative helped to reduce hazardous fuels, protect the surrounding community from severe wildfires, and enhance habitat for elk, mule deer, and other native wildlife. Conducted under carefully monitored conditions, this prescribed fire helped restore the natural fire cycle and built a more resilient landscape.

Why Was This Burn Conducted?

This burn helped reduce hazardous fuel buildup, lowered the risk of severe wildfires, and improved wildlife habitat by promoting new vegetation growth. It also helped restore the natural fire cycle, creating a healthier and more resilient ecosystem. 

Prescribed fire was ignited by helicopter and hand across approximately 900 acres in aspen and mixed mountain shrub vegetation that was decadent, of poor condition, and degraded forage value. This vegetation is adapted to fire and will sprout vigorously in response. Colorado Parks and Wildlife has identified this area as important habitat for elk and mule deer; these herds rely on the project area for forage, cover, and raising young.

Why Prescribed Fire? 

Prescribed fire is designed to mimic natural fire cycles that sustain healthy shrublands and forests  that enhance wildlife habitat, and create safer conditions for future wildfire management. Wildlife benefit from the reduction of dead and decadent vegetation which is replaced by new young sprouts and shoots that are more palatable forage while also providing more diverse vegetation cover.

Prescribed fires are an important tool for reducing fuels for wildfires and decreasing the risk of high-intensity wildfires. By proactively managing vegetation, fire managers can create defensible space and slow potential wildfire spread, ultimately protecting homes, infrastructure, and public lands.

Click here to watch the recording of the COMMUNITY MEETING + Q&A from March 4.