The newly formed West Fork Volunteer Fire Department is gaining traction, thanks to donated equipment, training and a $100,000 from the owners of Dunton Hot Springs resort. Residents of the West Fork Valley north of Dolores formed the nonprofit department last year to address the lack of nearby emergency services.
Planners are looking to construct the station next to the Dolores County maintenance yard on the West Fork Road near Fish Creek, right before where the road turns to dirt.
Legislation is being drafted by Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) that asks Congress to transfer 4 acres of San Juan National Forest land to Dolores county for the fire station.
"The station will provide fire protection for a community that currently has no fire station, preventing homeowners from being insured and putting their safety at risk," according to a statement from Bennet's office. "We plan to introduce the bill in the Senate this fall after incorporating feedback from the county and community."