National Fire Plan Success Story

Restoration of Park Point Lookout
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
National Fire Plan - Rehabilitation
2009

Fire lookouts have played a vital role in the early detection of wildfires; but as time passed and with the advent of newer technologies, such as fire detection by aircraft, many of the fire lookouts fell into disrepair or were torn down. Luckily, through the efforts of state and federal agencies and groups like the National Forest Fire Lookout Association, some of these lookouts are being restored. Such was the case in 2009 at Mesa Verde National Park with the restoration of the Park Point Lookout.

Originally built in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Park Point Lookout is located at Mesa Verde National Park’s highest point at 8,572 feet. With its expansive view, the lookout has played an important role in fire detection in Mesa Verde and the surrounding area for many years. But, like other lookouts of its era, it slowly deteriorated through the years from environmental factors and a lack of annual upkeep. When present Fire Management Officer (FMO) Allen Farnsworth arrived at Mesa Verde two years ago, he took notice of the condition of the lookout and decided that something should be done about it. Working with Park Superintendent Larry Wiese and other park officials, a decision was made to begin restoration work using park funds.  

A dedication ceremony was held on June 10, 2009 to celebrate the completion of the restoration of Park Point Lookout and to also recognize its listing on the National Historic Lookout Register. Sondra Kellogg, the director of the Colorado/Utah Chapter of the Forest Fire Lookout Association, was on hand to make the presentation. She commended everyone on the great job that they had done to preserve this historic lookout. The lookout will continue to be staffed through the summer months and is open to the public during those times.

Contact: David Eaker, Fire Communication and Education Specialist, (435) 772-7811.