SW Colorado Christmas Tree Train To Help Reduce Wildfire Risk

Autosave-File vom d-lab2/3 der AgfaPhoto GmbH
<p>(Hart Van Denburg/CPR News)</p>
<p>A Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad engineer photographed in Durango in 2010</p>
A Durango &amp; Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad engineer, black and white (HV)
A Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad engineer photographed in Durango in 2010

The Durango Herald reports that San Juan National Forest officials have identified an area near Cascade Wye, as a potential site for wildfire risk. The agency has teamed up with the railroad to launch the Christmas Tree Train, which will take passengers to the area to cut down white firs and then haul the Christmas trees back to Durango.

Forest spokeswoman Ann Bond says thinning the forest will help make it healthy.

The train service will be offered in December, on Fridays and Saturdays.