Salida Daily Digest Saturday, July 11, 2026
Ty's Take
Fire season's got the valley holding its breath again—evacuation orders coming down as fast as they went up, but the heat and wind forecast for this weekend means we're not out of the woods yet, literally or otherwise. Meanwhile, the smaller conversations matter too: Poncha Springs wrestling with wildfire codes while our museum marks fifty years of keeping this place's story alive, South Ark reopening its gates, the ski area getting its master plan approved for next season. It's the rhythm of a mountain town in July—relief mixed with caution, infrastructure getting attention while we remember what we've already built. Fire changes how you think about risk, and growth changes how you think about who we are. Both are happening now.
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Ark Valley Voice
Colorado Governor’s Race is Set: It will be Weiser versus Marx
Republican Victor Marx has secured his party's primary nomination in the Colorado governor's race after a tight three-way contest against Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer. Marx will now face Democratic incumbent Gov. Polis in the general election this fall.
A Christmas in July Progress Report: 14 Percent of the Way to Our Goal
The Ark Valley Voice's Christmas in July fundraiser has raised $4,300 so far, reaching 14 percent of its $30,000 goal to support the nonprofit newsroom. The outlet is seeking community donations to continue its local journalism efforts.
More Evacuation Orders Are Lifted for Residents Impacted by the Aspen Acres Fire
Evacuation orders continue to be lifted as firefighters make progress on the Aspen Acres Fire, which has burned nearly 97,100 acres and reached 28 percent containment. About 1,900 personnel are working the human-caused fire, which remains under investigation.
Willow Fire Containment Increases, Hot, Windy Weather is Expected This Weekend
The Willow Fire near Leadville has grown to 4,499 acres with containment reaching 22 percent as crews make steady progress. Officials warn that hot, windy weather this weekend could impact firefighting efforts on the incident costing $10.2 million.
Trump Fires Remaining Three Bipartisan Elections Commissioners
President Trump has fired the three remaining members of the National Election Assistance Commission, further signaling his administration's focus on the 2026 midterm elections. The move leaves the bipartisan commission without any Democratic representatives.
Poncha Springs Trustees Delay Wildfire Code Decision, Debate Sign Rules
Poncha Springs trustees pushed back a decision on adopting Colorado's Wildfire Resiliency Code despite facing a July 1 state deadline. The board also debated proposed changes to the town's sign regulations during the meeting.
Letter to the Editor: Thanking the Community
The Alliance thanked its community for stepping up with support after the organization faced federal funding cuts and staff reductions. Community response helped the nonprofit navigate its budget challenges during difficult times.
Salida City Council Declares July 11 Museum Day Ahead of 50th Anniversary Celebration
Salida's city council unanimously declared July 11 as Salida Museum Day to honor the institution's nearly 50 years of preserving local history. The museum is celebrating the milestone with a public anniversary event this weekend.
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The Mountain Mail
Nachtrieb recognized for Poncha Springs contributions
Dee Nachtrieb was honored by the Poncha Springs Board of Trustees for over a decade of volunteer service to the community, including work with the town garden and cemetery. Since 2014, she has regularly volunteered her time documenting graves and supporting local projects.
South Ark open space reopens July 11
The South Ark Neighborhood open space will reopen to the public on July 11 following completion of Phase 1 construction, featuring newly built sidewalks and a pedestrian bridge. The Green Gate access point will remain closed until early August due to ongoing sewer work.
USFS accepts 2025 Monarch Master Development Plan
The U.S. Forest Service has approved the 2025 Monarch Master Development Plan, moving forward with outlined initiatives for the ski area.
Abigail Nelson receives 2026 Beasley Memorial Scholarship
Salida High School graduate Abigail Nelson has won the $2,000 Brett Beasley Memorial Scholarship from the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association. Nelson will study biological engineering at Montana State University and is currently working as a recreation ranger for Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
The Mountain Mail has published a fishing guide with tips and information for anglers in the region.
More photos from around FIBArk
FIBArk festivities included carnival games and activities for families and their dogs, with the second annual Women of Whitewater event also taking place during the celebration.
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