Wildfire Near Turkey Track Shooting Area Threatens Douglas County Recreation

On November 28, 2025 a wildfire ignited near the Turkey Track Shooting area on the Douglas County and Teller County border. Local authorities mapped the fire at a few acres initially, and subsequent updates showed the blaze growing as crews worked to contain it. The U.S. Forest Service took lead responsibility for the incident with assistance from local fire departments and Douglas County deputies, while the Pueblo Interagency Fire Dispatch Center confirmed that crews were en route early in the response.

Firefighters adopted an indirect approach to suppression because unexploded ammunition in the shooting area posed a hazard to personnel. That tactic prioritized safety but allowed fuels inside the fire perimeter to burn and officials advised smoke could remain visible for several days. At the time of the active response and investigation, no structures or injuries were reported.

The location has a documented history of target shooting related fires in prior years. That pattern raises policy and management questions for both federal and local agencies about permitted uses, enforcement, signage, and public education on wildfire risks. Coordination among the U.S. Forest Service, county law enforcement and volunteer and municipal fire departments will determine how quickly resources are mobilized and how prevention strategies are implemented going forward.

For Douglas County residents the immediate impacts were smoke and the potential for temporary trail and access closures in a popular recreational area. Although no structures were threatened in this incident, the recurrence of shooting related fires increases the risk profile for surrounding communities and underscores the limits of relying solely on emergency response. County and federal officials will need to assess whether current restrictions, outreach and enforcement are sufficient to reduce repeat incidents.

Residents should avoid the area while crews complete containment and follow official updates from public safety agencies. As the investigation proceeds, civic engagement at county meetings and communication with land managers can shape future prevention and enforcement measures to reduce wildfire risk in shared public lands.