Danger struck at Camp V, the glamping resort just outside of Naturita, on July 3, when a structure burned to the ground.
“Cabin 9 was the heart center of the property and our operations,” Camp V founder Natalie Binder told the Forum on Monday. “It was one of the last historic structures and housed our supplies, kitchen and operating materials to run the property, such as linens, computers, cleaning products and tools. It was also the location of our front porch series, greeting and various gatherings, and impromptu porch sessions.”
She remains unsure of the fire’s cause; it’s under investigation.
“We were not at Cabin 9 when the fire occurred, so we are unsure of the cause, but we were on property and noticed the flames as we were headed to bed,” she said. “Our team acted quickly and ensured any sources of fuel, like vehicles, were moved and activated our water sources. We are grateful no one was injured and are looking forward to rising and recreating a space that will continue to bring people together and tell a new story.”
She said she and her team appreciate the support.
“We just want to thank the heroic efforts of all the fire and EMS first-responders, Montrose County Sheriff's Office, SMPA, Source Gas and our incredible community and guests. They contained the fire, and after we navigate this loss, we will look for ways to support them and pay it forward.”
Then, on July 5, at 8:08 p.m., the San Miguel Basin Forum turned right onto Highway 97, Nucla Road, from Highway 141 and noticed a power pole on fire. It was obvious the fire started in the ditch, on the riverside. The Forum called 911 and was told by dispatch that many calls had already been made and the fire department was on the way.
Rusty Scott, of Nucla, began to kick dirt onto the line of fire in the ditch. Drivers stopped to ask if 911 had been called.
Within minutes, Elijah Knuckles, of Naturita, was on the scene with a fire extinguisher in hand. Knuckles sprayed the fire pole and extinguished the flames quickly. In another few minutes, sheriff’s deputies and the Nucla-Naturita Fire Department arrived.
“No definite source of the fire was found, but a cigarette butt is suspected,” said Jeff Stephens, public information officer for Nucla-Naturita Fire Department. “The grass along the roadside ditch had burned also. Elijah Knuckles and his fire extinguisher greatly contributed to stopping the fire. His efforts are appreciated.”
And, wildfire remains a threat. The Wray Mesa Fire was announced over the weekend, located two miles east of THE Utah border on Wray Mesa in West Montrose County. It was reported to be burning 40 acres. Representatives of the BLM said single-engine aircraft tankers (SEATs) were able to drop multiple loads of fire retardant around the fire perimeter to slow the fire’s progression.
Multiple fire resources and agencies were on the scene.
“NNFD responded with multiple wildland firefighting apparatus, tender trucks (tankers) and personnel,” said Stephens. “Norwood Fire Department also responded with their wildland firefighting team and apparatus. BLM fire had also initiated a response by sending air assets to lay down perimeter fire suppression.”
As of press time, Stephens said 62 total personnel were involved, including the addition of four smoke jumpers from Craig, CO.
“BLM states no structures are threatened,” he added. “Nearby residents in the canyon along Highway 90 have been advised of the situation and told to prepare for evacuation, but no evacuation orders have been given.”
Stephens had no estimated containment as of press time.
