Remote wildfire detected, contained in Maroon Creek Wilderness

A remote wildfire now named the Willow Fire was detected in the Maroon Creek Wilderness on the evening of Thursday, July 24, and has been contained after an interagency response.

The initial smoke was identified by the district’s Pano AI wildfire detection system, which provides 24/7 monitoring of fire-prone areas. Aspen Fire Aspen Fire personnel coordinated with the United States Forest Service and the Grand Junction Interagency Dispatch Center to investigate the source, mobilizing ground and aerial resources.

Due to the remote and rugged terrain, a USFS smokejumper crew was deployed late on July 24, with personnel committed to the scene early the following morning on July 25.

An abandoned and unextinguished campfire was identified as the cause of ignition, “a dangerous and preventable ignition source,” according to a press release.

The fire was located and addressed before it could spread thanks to the early detection. 

“What made the detection of this smoke by the Pano AI system more impressive was its ability to pick up a new smoke signature considering the abundance of smoke haze already in the area,” said Ken Josselyn, Battalion Chief, AFPD, in the release. “The system allowed us to identify and respond to the Willow Fire well before it had the chance to become a major incident. It’s a critical tool in our broader wildfire preparedness and community protection efforts.”

This incident comes during a period of heightened wildfire risk, the press release states, as much of the Aspen Fire Protection District remains in drought conditions and has experienced multiple Red Flag Warning days in the preceding week. Aspen Fire is reminding all residents and visitors to “exercise extreme caution” with any activity that could spark a fire in wilderness areas.

“Always extinguish campfires completely, adhere to local fire restrictions, and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately,” the press release reads.

 For more information on wildfire safety and real-time updates, visit http://www.aspenfire.com or follow Aspen Fire Protection District on social media.