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Wildfire Season Hanging On In Western Colorado

RIFLE, Colo. (AP) — Wildfire season is hanging on in western Colorado.

A 500-acre wildfire was burning north of Rifle Thursday. It started Wednesday along a highway and strong winds pushed into the forest on the west side of the Grand Hogback.

The terrain is rugged and steep so crews are mainly attacking it from the air.

It's not immediately threatening any homes but there are some scattered homes on the east side of the Hogback.

The cause hasn't been determined, but Colorado River Fire Rescue Chief Mike Morgan believes it was likely human caused.

To the east, a 257-acre fire is smoldering in the Flat Tops. Crews can't access the interior so it won't be completely out until there's heavy rain or snow.

It was started Sept. 20 by an unattended campfire.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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