Springer Fire: Human-Caused, 23 Percent Contained, 1,100 Acres Burned

LAKE GEORGE, Colo. (CBS4/AP) — The Springer Fire burning in the Pike National Forest has grown to 1,100 acres but it is now 23 percent contained.

Fire investigators believe the fire was sparked by someone participating in recreational shooting over the weekend, possibly by people shooting a gun at a fuel tank. Several agencies are investigating the origin.

The fire is burning near Lake George, about 10 miles west of where the Hayman Fire burned 10 years ago.

It has prompted the evacuation of about 150 homes, a Boy Scout camp and the Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area. A monastery of nuns has also evacuated voluntarily.

The fire was first reported early Sunday afternoon and it quickly grew in hot, windy weather.

Eleven Mile Canyon including Camp Alexander has been evacuated and will remain closed to all recreation and traffic. Park County has issued a mandatory evacuation for the following:

Wagon Tongue subdivision
Echo Valley Subdivision
Circle C Ranch
Beaver Valley Ranch
Beaver Valley Estates
Homes located on County Rd 98 and 403

Teller County has issued a voluntary evacuation notice for the Wilson Lakes subdivision, Forest Glen subdivision, and Blue Mountain.

An evacuation center has been set up by the Red Cross at the High School in Woodland Park. Evacuees can take large animals to the Fairgrounds in Cripple Creek and small animals can be taken to the Teller County Animal Shelter.

Highways 90, 92 and 96 have been blocked off.

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