Colorado is no stranger fires. They happen on a regular – and increasingly frequent – basis. The “I Do” Fire was one of the largest at the time. Currently, the largest Colorado wildfire in state history is the Cameron Peak fire, which burned over 208,000 acres.
Historical Marker Inscription
On July 16, 1988, a lightning-caused wildfire burned over 15,000 acres of public and private land here as far as the eye can see. The “I Do” Fire, named for a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) firefighter who was married on that day, became the largest wildfire in Colorado’s recorded history.
BLM planted wheatgrass and rye in strips and at right angles to the prevailing winds, to reduce wind erosion until the area is revegetated.
This area is home to large numbers of deer and antelope as well as a variety of smaller mammals and birds.
Take Pride in America
Location
U.S. Highway 40, West of County Road 143 approximately 5 miles from Maybell, Colorado
N 40° 28.999, W 108° 10.923
Historical Markers of the World 