Lefthand Canyon Fire. Pictures.

INCIDENT UPDATED 3 MIN. AGO
Approximate Location
40.111 latitude, -105.316 longitude

Incident Overview
The Maxwell Fire is burning on National Forest System lands in the Lefthand Canyon area northwest of Boulder. Favorable weather allowed firefighters to make good progress yesterday, leading to 40% containment. After flying over the fire for more accurate mapping, the fire is estimated at 60 acres.Firefighters will continue to work on containment lines throughout the day and monitor areas where line is established. Warmer weather is expected today and smoke may be more visible today.

A fire investigation determined the source of ignition was an abandoned campfire located 50 feet north of Lefthand Canyon Drive. This is the third fire in the Lefthand Canyon area this year. The Forest Service is responding by taking a hard look at what has happened the past few months including current uses and their impacts. Agency officials are considering options for changes in area management keeping weather, available resources, and public safety in mind.

A media briefing is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. this afternoon at the Fire Training Center next to Boulder Reservoir 6055 Reservoir Road.

Basic Information
Incident Type Wildfire
Cause Unattended Campfire
Date of Origin Sunday June 26th, 2011 approx. 05:00 PM
Location Lefthand Canyon Area of Roosevelt National Forest
Incident Commander Will Briggs, Usfs

Current Situation
Total Personnel 145
Size 60 acres
Percent Contained 40%
Estimated Containment Date Tuesday June 28th, 2011 approx. 10:00 PM
Fire Behavior Pockets of unburned fuel within the perimeter may ignite putting up flames and smoke today.

Significant Events A small spot fire crossed Lefthand Canyon Drive, but firefighters are on it. It is approximately 20x30 feet.

Outlook
Planned Actions Firefighters are actively monitoring the line along Lefthand Canyon Drive to continue protecting Boulder Heights. One light helicopter is working the fire for recon and water drops. Two SEATS (single engine air tankers) are available.

Terrain Difficulty Steep, rocky terrain, concern of rolling rocks

Remarks Firefighter safety is of the utmost importance, stressing hydration as temperatures continue to rise. No homes are threatened and no evacuations are in place. Weather in the area is expected to reach the 90s with wind gusts this afternoon 15-20 mph and humidity dropping below 15%.

INCIDENT UPDATED 1:21 HRS. AGO
Approximate Location
40.111 latitude, -105.316 longitude

Incident Overview
The Maxwell Fire is burning on National Forest System lands in the Lefthand Canyon area northwest of Boulder. After flying over the fire for more accurate mapping, the fire is estimated at 60 acres. Crews continued making good progress yesterday thanks to higher humidities and have 80% containment Firefighters will continue to secure line and mop up today.

A fire investigation determined the source of ignition was an abandoned campfire located 50 feet north of Lefthand Canyon Drive. This is the third fire in the Lefthand Canyon area this year. The Forest Service is responding by taking a hard look at what has happened the past few months including current uses and their impacts. Agency officials are considering options for changes in area management keeping weather, available resources, and public safety in mind.

Basic Information
Incident Type Wildfire
Cause Unattended Campfire
Date of Origin Sunday June 26th, 2011 approx. 05:00 PM
Location Lefthand Canyon Area of Roosevelt National Forest
Incident Commander Will Briggs, Usfs

Current Situation
Total Personnel 50
Size 60 acres
Percent Contained 80%
Estimated Containment Date Wednesday June 29th, 2011 approx. 08:00 PM
Fire Behavior There was no major fire activity yesterday within the perimeter or on the spot fire (located across Lefthand Canyon Drive, 20X30 feet).

Outlook
Planned Actions Firefighters will continue to mop up and secure line today. One light helicopter and two SEATS (single engine air tankers) are available if needed today. As resources are released, they are available for initial attack needs in the area. Two hand crews and two engines remain on the fire today.

Terrain Difficulty Steep, rocky terrain, concern of rolling rocks

Remarks Firefighter safety is of the utmost importance, stressing hydration as temperatures continue to rise. No homes are threatened and no evacuations are in place.