The Village of Ruidoso is proactively responding to PNM’s Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) to mitigate wildfire risks. While the Village does not control shutoff decisions, it is working with local partners to keep residents informed and prepared. Emergency plans include resiliency centers, alert systems, and resources for those with medical needs. Residents are urged to plan ahead and stay informed.

Join the Sierra Club’s A Decade of Forest Fires – Ruidoso Hike on March 22, 2025, from 10 AM – 12 PM. This moderate, 3.5-mile hike through Cedar Creek Trails explores fire-scarred landscapes and forest recovery, with scenic views of Sierra Blanca and Ski Apache. Limited to 10 participants; RSVP by March 20. No dogs; ages 14+ with a guardian. Register: www.riograndesierraclub.org/calendar.

February 10, 2025 – Effective immediately, Lincoln National Forest has raised its fire danger rating from “moderate” to “high” due to low moisture levels and forecasted dry conditions. Fires can now start and spread easily, especially in grassy or wooded areas. Visitors are urged to follow fire safety guidelines and ensure campfires are fully extinguished.

The Wingfield Heritage House Museum invites families to Hands-on History Family Day on Saturday, March 1, from 10 AM to 2 PM. This free event offers interactive activities, including retro games, handwriting practice, crafts, a historic photo booth, and museum exploration. Located at 2813 Sudderth Drive, the museum showcases Ruidoso’s rich history. 

The Village of Ruidoso alerts residents to three post-fire recovery programs for private landowners impacted by the South Fork Fire. Each program is independently funded and requires separate applications. The NM Forestry Division provides watershed stabilization and hazard tree mitigation, NRCS offers emergency watershed protection, and NM DHSEM provides full-service debris removal. Landowners can apply via the provided QR codes or agency websites.

In the February 2025 Ruidoso Insider, recent snowfall takes center stage, revitalizing tourism and water resources as the community prepares for a busy Spring Break. Mayor Lynn Crawford shares updates on wildfire recovery efforts and emphasizes the importance of protecting water systems through proper fat, oil, and grease disposal. February also brings major school renovations and events like the Vines in the Pines Wine Festival and free spay/neuter services.

The Lincoln National Forest is planning to conduct prescribed fire operations on the Sacramento Ranger District beginning Jan. 31, through Feb. 14, 2025, depending on weather and ground conditions.

For updates and information, please visit the Lincoln National Forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/lincoln, the Lincoln National Forest Facebook page and https://nmfireinfo.com/

Ruidoso shines as the ultimate Christmas movie destination in Santa’s Cousin, directed by Ross Marks. This heartwarming holiday film captures the town’s festive spirit, from its wild horses to the beloved Festival of Lights Parade. Though much was filmed in Las Cruces, Ruidoso remains central to the story. With local inspiration and community support, Santa’s Cousin highlights Ruidoso’s charm as a must-visit holiday destination.

Mayor Lynn D. Crawford’s 2025 State of the Village address highlights Ruidoso’s resilience and progress following last summer’s wildfires and floods. Key achievements include a $53M cash balance, FEMA-supported recovery projects, tourism marketing, and workforce housing development. Public safety, sustainable tourism, and infrastructure remain top priorities. “Together, Ruidoso will emerge stronger,” said Crawford.

The Village of Ruidoso has formed a Short-Term Rental Sub-Committee to evaluate the impact of short-term rentals. A Town Hall Meeting will be held on January 28, 2025 at 6:00 PM at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input on the ordinance. Your feedback is essential in shaping effective policies for our community's future.

In the January 2025 Ruidoso Insider, we wish you a Happy New Year! Mayor Lynn Crawford shares an uplifting message about our community’s resilience and progress as we rebuild a stronger, more vibrant Ruidoso. This issue covers updates on workforce housing, water system improvements, new leadership at RPD and RFD, staff milestones, and winter events like ice skating at Wingfield Park. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth and optimism!

The workforce housing project at 603 Mechem Drive is progressing, with modular units onsite and utility installation on track for February. The Village is coordinating transport to minimize disruptions, though brief interruptions may occur. Landscaping bids are open, with work starting in February, weather permitting. To join the waitlist, contact Berkshire Hathaway at 575-257-4011. For project info, call Michael Martinez at 575-258-4343 ext. 1006.

Congress has approved $2 billion for the SBA Disaster Loan Program, allowing Ruidoso residents and businesses impacted by disasters like the South Fork and Salt Fires to access low-interest loans. This funding will help over 21,000 applicants nationwide resume recovery efforts. Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits can apply online at sba.gov/disaster or in person at a Disaster or Business Recovery Center.

The Lincoln National Forest raised its fire danger rating to 'moderate' on December 19, 2024, following assessments of moisture levels and weather forecasts. Moderate fire danger means fires can start from most accidental causes, spreading quickly in dry grasslands on windy days. Visitors are urged to fully extinguish campfires, prepare for winter weather, and prioritize fire safety.

The RSVP program of Ruidoso Community Center and partners is hosting a Winter Coat Drive to support neighbors in need. Donate new or gently used winter items for adults and children, including coats, gloves, hats, scarves, and hoodies. Drop-offs are accepted through Jan. 20, 2025, at various locations, including Albertsons, Walgreens, and Horton Gymnasium. For details, call 575-257-4565.

Filmed in and around Ruidoso, Santa’s Cousin (Dec. 2024) is a heartwarming Christmas romantic comedy that follows Santa’s cousin on a mission to save the town’s beloved Christmas Jubilee—finding love and rediscovering the holiday spirit along the way. Starring Jonathan Stoddard, Alexandra Harris, and Eric Roberts, the film beautifully showcases Ruidoso’s cherished holiday traditions.

The Smokey Bear Ranger District of the Lincoln National Forest plans prescribed pile burns in the Little Eagle Project Area through December 2024 and January 2025, targeting 150 acres near Alto and northwest of Ruidoso. Burns aim to manage forest health and reduce fuel buildup. Smoke may be visible from nearby communities. Dates depend on weather conditions, with updates provided to the public.

This holiday season, the Ruidoso Police Department reminds everyone to celebrate safely with a few simple tips: keep your home well-lit, avoid posting gifts on social media, ask a neighbor to watch your home if traveling, and never drink and drive. For assistance, call RPD’s non-emergency number at 575-258-7365. Let’s work together to ensure a joyful, safe, and secure holiday season for all!

Join Ruidoso’s Shop with a Cop event on December 14, 2024, where local police officers bring holiday cheer to children in need by shopping with them and fostering positive connections. Support the program by donating funds, gift cards, or goodie bag items, or by sponsoring meals. Together, we can brighten the holidays and strengthen community bonds. Contact the RPD at 575-258-7365 to get involved!

The Festival of Lights Parade returns on Saturday, December 7, 2024, starting at 5:30 PM. Road closures on Sudderth Drive, from Paradise Canyon Drive to the Main Road Traffic Circle, begin between 4:45 PM and 5:00 PM and will last until the parade concludes. Celebrate safely and enjoy the festivities! Alternate routes are advised to avoid traffic delays. Barricades and detours will be in place to manage traffic. Plan ahead and enjoy the festivities!