The Forest Service is monitoring a controlled burn in the Falls Creek area, on the west side of the Animas Valley.

Stan Sparks, visitor information specialist with the Columbine Ranger District, said crews are burning piles, and crews will continue to burn in the area during favorable weather conditions, like today. The Forest Service plans to burn 200 more piles in the area, he said.

Smoke will be visible throughout the winter in the area until crews can finish burning all the piles, he said.

However, the Forest Service is expecting a winter storm Tuesday, so it might be another few days before it can burn again, Sparks said.

Several residents have reported seeing smoke in the Animas Valley, said Karola Hanks, fire marshal with the Durango Fire Protection District.

vguthrie@durangoherald.com