SO keeping a close eye on areas of concern 

Sheridan County Sheriff Levi Dominguez, Emergency Management Coordinator Jesse Ludikhuize and other stakeholders have been discussing flooding in the areas surrounding the burn scar of the Elk Fire before the fire was contained.

Sheriff Dominguez made an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse and advised County residents to remain vigilant during the spring season as flood patterns may be unusual for years to come.  

Due to the Elk Fire damage in the area west of Sheridan, flood patterns may be irregular. With so much plant life and topsoil removed by the fire that burned close to 100,000 acres, the Sheriff and his deputies are keeping watch on areas of concern. 

Sheriff L. Dominguez

The Sheriff is hoping for a gradual warming of the temperature, allowing the ground to absorb more moisture. But Dominguez is recommending residents in that area, who have already endured so much over the last year, to keep an eye on culverts, bridges and roadways. 

Many stakeholders, conservation groups and government organizations have expressed a desire to assist and help that area. The Sheriff said it’s good to see so many people coming together for the effort. His primary concern is the safety of the public, their property and the many unknowns that still remain as the region begins to warm up. 

Sheriff L. Dominguez

Monitoring and preparation is the strategy, according to the Sheriff. To help residents prepare, Sheridan County Emergency Management has worked with the County Road and Bridge teams to ensure sandbags and filling material are ready at the following locations: 

Sheridan County Fairgrounds-west side near fence line

City of Sheridan Service Center at 1148 Kroe Lane. Open from 7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday

Fire Hall, Story

Fire Hall, Big Horn

Sheridan County shop (south of Girl’s School) Monday – Thursday, gate closes at 4:30 p.m.; closed Friday – Sunday.

Ranchester Town Hall

Dayton Town Shop

Should residents find areas that are becoming flooded, culverts that have become clogged or any other flooding event, the Sheriff asks they report the matter to his office at 307-672-3455.