Northeastern Colorado farmers cut fire lines to protect community from huge, wind-driven blaze
HAXTUN — As a wind-whipped wildfire raced across the drought-parched prairie of northeastern Colorado — destroying homes, vehicles and cattle in its path — residents of this small town came out in force to make a stand.
Farmers summoned by the smell of smoke Monday night drove their tractors miles to dig fire lines, aiding a small army of volunteer firefighters protecting their town and its 900 residents. Their family members gathered at Haxtun Community Center with food, water and Gatorade.
At least five homes have been lost in the blaze and several more were damaged. Another 15 outbuildings, including barns, were said to be destroyed, as well as numerous vehicles, including tractors vital to the area’s farmers and ranchers.
Ranchers say a wind-driven grass fire has killed scores of cattle.
Kyle McConnell told KCNC-TV on Tuesday that he he lost 185 head of cattle in the fire, which also destroyed five homes.
The Colorado Cattlemen’s Association says other ranchers lost livestock but no numbers were immediately available.
The association appealed for donations of hay, feed and fencing supplies and help with trucking.
HAXTUN, CO – MARCH 7: A home that was caught up in a large brush fire driven by high winds near the town of Haxtun in Phillips County, Colorado. March 7, 2017. (Photo by Joe Amon/The Denver Post)
HAXTUN, CO – MARCH 7: A home that was caught up in a large brush fire driven by high winds near the town of Haxtun in Phillips County, Colorado. March 7, 2017. (Photo by Joe Amon/The Denver Post)