UPDATE: The beloved Colby Mountain Lookout, a historical landmark in Butte Meadows, will be permanently closed and demolished, shocking local residents and its longtime caretaker, Ken Jordan. After serving as a wildfire lookout for 41 years, Jordan was informed earlier this month by a U.S. Forest Service official that the lookout would be torn down, leaving him without a job.
The decision, described as “a pile of junk” by officials, has sent ripples of disbelief through the community. Just last year, the lookout celebrated its 90th anniversary, marking a proud legacy that residents and visitors cherished. Jordan expressed his devastation, stating, “I was stunned,” as he processed the abrupt announcement.
The closure comes at a critical time when wildfire threats remain high, with residents relying on Jordan’s keen observations for early smoke detection. “I made a decision several decades ago that watching out for these people in the mountains was going to be what I do,” said Jordan, who has faced personal health challenges yet continued to climb the tower daily.
Jordan was informed while preparing for the winter closure, a routine he has followed for years. “I was glad to prepare for winter a little earlier,” he recalled, not knowing it would be his last time. Now, with the Forest Service offices closed due to a federal government shutdown, Jordan has received no further communication about his future or the lookout’s status.
Local residents are voicing their outrage over the decision, calling it a severe loss for public safety and community pride. “It’s pretty disappointing,” said local resident Bowers Laurie, highlighting Jordan’s invaluable experience and insight during wildfire seasons. “You take all that experience and replace it with cameras? Seems pretty far-fetched.”
The Colby Mountain Lookout has been more than just a tower; it was a welcoming site for 300 to 400 visitors each year, where Jordan shared his extensive knowledge about the forest and wildlife. The lookout was also integral to the Colby Mountain Recreational Project, which aims to develop 40 miles of hiking and biking trails, further emphasizing the lookout’s importance to the community.
Residents are concerned not only about the loss of the lookout but also the loss of a personal connection with Jordan, who has been a trusted source of information during emergencies. “Now we don’t have that resource,” lamented Stacey Kelso, owner of the Butte Meadows Mercantile and Resort. “Everyone is in an uproar.”
Jordan’s fate remains uncertain as officials have not provided an alternative position despite discussions. The lack of clarity, compounded by the government shutdown, leaves many unanswered questions about the future of wildfire monitoring in the area.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly supportive of Jordan, with public outcry swelling on social media platforms. “It’s unanimous that we’re very upset,” Kelso added, emphasizing the emotional impact of this decision on the community.
As the impending demolition of the Colby Mountain Lookout looms, the future of fire monitoring in Butte Meadows hangs in the balance. Residents are left hoping that their voices will be heard as they advocate for Jordan and the preservation of a historic site that has served them for generations.
This urgent situation illustrates the profound connection between community, history, and safety in the face of wildfire threats. The immediate next steps remain unclear, but the outpouring of community support for Jordan and the lookout’s legacy is undeniable.
