ANTONITO — Conejos County Sheriff Garth Crowther announced Tuesday, May 31, that the Menkhaven Fire was caused by sparks from a tree dropping on a powerline in the Menkhaven area west of Fox Creek on May 28 at approximately 3:15 p.m.

Sheriff Crowther stated that the owners of the powerline have cooperated with the investigation from the beginning. The investigation was conducted in cooperation with federal agents and law enforcement officers and remains ongoing.

The Menkhaven Fire was reported to be 242 acres and 50% contained as of 7 p.m. Monday.

“The incredible local response to the fire has left me in awe,” said Sheriff Crowther. “I would like to thank all of the agencies and their responders for their dedication and hard work on this very challenging incident. This response truly reflects who we are as a San Luis Valley community.”

The sheriff assures residents that the fire managers will remain on the scene as long as needed, to ensure the risk to the community from this fire has been eliminated.