The Aspen Acres Wildfire started on June 29th, 2026 at 6:19am and has left a lasting mark on the landscapes and communities of Pueblo and Custer counties. Fueled by dry conditions, heat, and wind, the fire quickly became a massive effort involving firefighters and aviation crews working tirelessly to protect lives and property.

One of the most unforgettable sights was watching Bridger Aerospace CL‑415EAF water-scooping aircraft skim across nearby reservoirs, collecting thousands of gallons of water before returning to the fire within minutes. Their speed and precision were a powerful reminder of the teamwork and technology required to battle today's wildfires.

As a photographer, I believe moments like these deserve to be remembered. Photographs preserve not only the destruction left behind, but also the courage, resilience, and determination of the people who fought to protect southern Colorado.

Recovery will take time, but these images stand as a testament to a community coming together in the face of adversity—and to the firefighters, flight crews, and volunteers whose dedication made a difference when it mattered most.