Lincoln National Forest has increased its fire danger rating from “low” to “moderate” as of October 9, 2024. While fires can start easily from most causes, their spread in grasslands may be rapid, particularly on windy days. Visitors are urged to practice caution when using campfires. Fireworks remain prohibited. For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/lincoln.

New Mexico residents impacted by the South Fork and Salt Fires or flooding have until October 19, 2024, to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. Homeowners and renters in affected counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation can receive grants that don't need to be repaid. Apply online, via the FEMA app, by phone, or in person at the Ruidoso Disaster Recovery Center before the deadline.

The New Mexico State Board of Licensure outlines guidelines for restoring fire-damaged foundations, including structural assessments, material testing, and code compliance. In fire zones, soil suitability tests may be required for new foundations. For flood zones, rebuilding must comply with floodplain regulations, ensuring safety and stability.

Over $22 million in federal assistance has been approved for recovery efforts following the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding in New Mexico. FEMA, the SBA, and NFIP are helping homeowners, renters, and businesses with grants, loans, and insurance settlements. The deadline to apply for federal disaster assistance is October 19, 2024. Visit disasterassistance.gov for more information.

Hiring unlicensed contractors can be risky. New Mexico urges residents to verify licenses of handymen, roofers, electricians, and more. Report unlicensed work to the Construction Industries or Manufactured Housing Divisions. Visit RLD.NM.GOV/REBUILDING-NEW-MEXICO or call 505-222-9800 to ensure safe rebuilding in Ruidoso.

Join the Village of Ruidoso and FEMA for a Federal Contract Registration Workshop and 1:1 assistance sessions for short-term rental owners and local contractors impacted by the South Fork and Salt Fires. Learn how to register on sam.gov for federal contracts, including FEMA’s Direct Lease program. Sessions will be held at ENMU-Ruidoso on September 10-12, 2024.

Homeowners affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires or flooding may be eligible for financial assistance from FEMA and the SBA to repair or rebuild stronger homes. FEMA provides funds for mitigation measures like vent screens, non-combustible gutters, and elevating utilities. The SBA offers low-interest loans for home improvements to prevent future damage. Contact FEMA or SBA for more details.

FEMA extended the deadline to apply for disaster assistance to October 19, 2024, for residents affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding in New Mexico. Eligible counties include Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba, San Juan, and the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Applications can be made online, via the FEMA app, by phone, or at Disaster Recovery Centers. SBA loan applications are also due by October 19.

The New Mexico Environment Department lifted the precautionary water advisory for Ruidoso's Water System on August 5, 2024, marking a recovery milestone after the South Fork and Salt Fires. Initially issued on June 18, 2024, the advisory's removal reflects collaboration between NMED and Ruidoso. Other affected systems, such as Tall Pines and Cedar Creek, remain under advisory. Contact NMED for more information.

The SBA has approved over $6 million in disaster loans for New Mexico residents and businesses affected by the South Fork Fire, Salt Fire, and flooding. Assistance is available for the Mescalero Apache Tribe and Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba, and San Juan counties. The deadline to apply for property damage is August 19, 2024, and for economic injury is March 20, 2025. Apply at SBA.gov/disaster or call (800) 659-2955.

Following the South Fork and Salt Fires, FEMA advises New Mexicans to beware of scammers posing as disaster relief workers. Genuine FEMA staff will not charge fees, ask for confidential information, or claim to have a "seal of approval" for contractors. Always verify identification and report suspicious activities to the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed House Bill 1, allocating $100 million for recovery from the South Fork and Salt fires and ongoing flooding. The funds include $10 million each for the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Energy Department, and Homeland Security, and $70 million in loans for local infrastructure projects. Residents can apply for FEMA assistance online, by phone, or at designated resource centers.

The U.S. Forest Service has issued an Area Closure Order for parts of the Smokey Bear Ranger District in Lincoln National Forest, effective July 29 to November 1, 2024, due to public health and safety concerns from recent wildfires and potential flooding. The order prohibits public access to specified lands, roads, and trails. Exemptions apply to certain permit holders and officials. For details, visit Lincoln National Forest Alerts.

The New Mexico Association of REALTORS® has secured a $500,000 grant from the REALTORS® Relief Foundation to assist residents impacted by the South Fork and Salt Wildfires. Eligible applicants can receive up to $2,500 per household for mortgage, rental, or hotel expenses. Applications are open until August 23, 2024. Visit the NM REALTOR® website for details and to apply for assistance.

The Village of Ruidoso invites residents to a Town Hall meeting on August 6, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 313 Cree Meadows Drive to gather public input for the FY 2026-2030 Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP). Attend to help prioritize and update the Village’s capital projects over the next five years. Your participation is crucial!

Thirty days after President Biden's disaster declaration for the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding, FEMA and SBA have approved over $6 million in federal aid. This includes more than $3 million in FEMA housing and personal property grants and $3 million in SBA disaster loans. Applications for assistance are available online, by phone, or in person. The deadline is August 19, 2024.

The South Fork Fire, caused by lightning before its detection on June 17, 2024, is under thorough investigation by multiple agencies, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the FBI. The detailed analysis involves evaluating lightning data and burn patterns. The Salt Fire's cause remains unknown. Public tips are encouraged via 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov. Full reports will be released when available.

Investigators confirm lightning caused the South Fork Fire near Ruidoso, now 87% contained after consuming 17,569 acres. Meanwhile, the cause of the nearby Salt Fire remains under FBI investigation, with a $10,000 reward for information leading to those responsible. Stay informed with @BIA.Mescalero.Forestry.Fire.

The SBA and New Mexico Small Business Development Center have opened a Business Recovery Center in Ruidoso to assist businesses impacted by the South Fork and Salt Fires. Located at the Ruidoso Public Library, it offers free services, including loan assistance and business advice. Businesses can apply for property damage assistance by August 19, 2024, and economic injury assistance by March 20, 2025.

The IRS and New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department offer extended filing deadlines and payment relief for individuals and businesses affected by recent wildfires and flooding in southern New Mexico. Eligible taxpayers in designated disaster areas have until November 1, 2024, to file federal returns and until July 25, 2024, for state returns. Visit IRS.gov and tax.newmexico.gov for details.