Full-Service Debris Removal Program Available for South Fork and Salt Fire Affected Residents
How to Sign Up for the Private Property Debris Removal Program
In the wake of the South Fork and Salt Fires, the Village of Ruidoso is committed to helping residents navigate the recovery process. One critical step in this recovery is removing disaster-related debris from private properties. The State of New Mexico offers a fully funded Private Property Debris Removal program to assist affected residents.
What is the Private Property Debris Removal Program?
The Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) program is a State-funded initiative designed to help residents clear debris from properties impacted by the South Fork Fire, Salt Fire, and subsequent flooding in Lincoln County. This program ensures that professionals safely remove debris, which may pose health risks, allowing residents to focus on rebuilding their lives.
How Can You Sign Up?
Residents have three convenient options to sign up for the PPDR program:
In Person:
Disaster Case Managers can assist residents with filling out the Right-of-Entry form at Disaster Recovery Centers. You can visit the following locations:
Horton Complex at 237 Service Road, Ruidoso, NM
Mescalero Library at 148 Cottonwood Dr. City. Mescalero, NM
By Email:
Download the Right-of-Entry form from the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management website at dhsem.nm.gov/nmwildfires/debris. Once completed, you can email the form to dhsem-dcm@dhsem.nm.gov.
By Phone:
Call 1-833-663-4736 to express your interest in the program. The call center staff will assist you in completing the Right-of-Entry form online or by arranging an in-person appointment.
Important Considerations
To participate in the program, residents must complete, sign, and submit a Right-of-Entry form, which grants the necessary access to their property. Debris removal cannot begin until this form is on file. Residents also have the option to opt out of the program if they choose.
Why is Debris Removal Important?
The debris left behind by wildfires can contain hazardous materials such as heavy metals, asbestos, and other toxic substances. Exposure to these materials can pose significant health risks. The PPDR program ensures that debris is handled safely and effectively, reducing potential harm to residents and the environment.
Reducing Your Exposure to Hazardous Debris
While it is not prohibited to sift through debris, it is highly discouraged due to the health risks involved. If you choose to search for salvageable items, please do so with extreme caution and wear appropriate protective gear, including:
NIOSH-certified air-purifying respirator masks (N-95 or better)
Gloves, long shirts, and pants
Safety eyewear
Children should not be exposed to wildfire debris or ash under any circumstances.
For More Information
For further details and to sign up for the program, please visit the official website: dhsem.nm.gov/nmwildfires/debris.
The Village of Ruidoso remains dedicated to supporting our community throughout this recovery process. Together, we will rebuild and restore our beautiful home.
