Steamboat Springs, Colorado-March 10, 2026-Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue (SSFR), in partnership with the Milner Park Community Cooperative (MPCC), has successfully restored a vital dry fire hydrant system in Milner Park, significantly improving fire protection capabilities for the Milner community and surrounding rural properties.
Earlier this summer, the newly formed MPCC identified that the park’s 10,000-gallon water tank and dry hydrant system — originally installed during a 1994 park expansion — were not operational. The issue became especially concerning following a fire that destroyed the iconic Camiletti barn along Highway 40 in Milner. During that incident, SSFR crews attempted to access water from the hydrant but were unsuccessful.
Prompted by both the incident and community awareness efforts, MPCC members contacted SSFR Fire Marshal Doug Shaffer to determine the necessary repairs to bring the system back into service. Working collaboratively, ground piping and the hydrant endpiece were replaced, and the system was carefully backfilled. A retaining wood wall will be constructed once the ground fully thaws to further stabilize the area.
The hydrant was successfully tested and filled in December by Fire Marshal Doug Shaffer and SSFR’s Devin Bonvansky, confirming the system is fully operational. The restored dry hydrant is now available for SSFR use, providing an essential water supply in an area without traditional municipal hydrant infrastructure.
“This partnership reflects the power of community initiative,” said Fire Marshal Shaffer. “Having a reliable water source in Milner Park greatly enhances our ability to respond quickly and effectively to fires in Milner and the surrounding homes and ranches.”
In addition to infrastructure improvements, MPCC continues to prioritize wildfire preparedness and prevention. At the fall community picnic and meeting, MPCC hosted guest speakers from the Routt County Fire Mitigation Council and distributed fire blankets to each household. These proactive safety measures aim to reduce fire hazards as the community prepares for what could be a potentially dry summer season.
SSFR extends its appreciation to the Milner Park Community Cooperative members who facilitated the project, as well as Joe, the local plumber who assisted with repairs. This successful collaboration strengthens fire protection resources in Milner and demonstrates a shared commitment to community safety and resilience.
-WeServeTheCity-
Contact
Email Doug Shaffer, Fire Marshal, or call 970-871-8216
Email Devin Borvansky, Fire Lieutenant, or call 970-879-7170
Email Michael Lane, Communications Manager, or call 970-871-8220