Green Mtn Tramway & Trumbull Fireline Project
Location
Pike-San Isabel National Forest, CO
Size
6.2 miles of fireline constructed
Land Ownership
U.S. Forest Service
Partners
US Forest Service
Project Overview
In preparation for a future prescribed burn, Stewardship West partnered with the US Forest Service to construct 6.2 miles of fireline within the Green Mountain Tramway and Trumbull areas of Pike-San Isabel National Forest. The fireline was built over the course of just two weeks through steep, rugged, and environmentally sensitive terrain where mechanized equipment could not be used.
A fireline is a cleared strip of land that acts as a barrier to slow or stop the spread of fire. To be effective, all vegetation and flammable material must be removed down to bare mineral soil. These barriers are essential to prescribed fire planning, helping keep fire contained within the desired burn area and protecting nearby resources.
Our Role
Stewardship West crews constructed the fireline entirely by hand using tools such as Pulaskis, shovels, and rakes. The process involved clearing grasses, brush, and small trees, scraping away leaf litter and duff, and exposing soil to create a non-flammable boundary. Chainsaws were used where needed to cut down larger vegetation or deadfall.
All flammable debris was moved away from the fireline and either scattered or piled for future disposal. Crews inspected the line closely to ensure no remaining roots or fuels could allow fire to cross. In sensitive ecological areas, care was taken to avoid excess soil disturbance and comply with environmental protections.
This project ensured that the upcoming prescribed burn could be carried out safely and effectively. It supports long-term goals of forest health, fuels reduction, and wildfire risk mitigation in Colorado’s fire-adapted landscapes.
