Burned Area Emergency Response Team Updates on South Fork and Salt Fires
As the Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team continues its rapid assessment in response to the South Fork and Salt Fires, significant progress has been made during the first operational week. This update highlights key developments and ongoing efforts to mitigate post-fire hazards and protect our community.
Geospatial Assessments and Public Engagement
The BAER team has completed several crucial geospatial products, which are now accessible on our public-facing Inciweb site. These products include essential risk assessments and mapping updates vital for public awareness and safety planning. Visit Nmmea South Fork And Salt Fires Burned Area Emergency Response Information | InciWeb for detailed information.
Operational Split and Funding Requests
Entering its second week, the team has divided into specialized groups focusing on preparing urgent funding requests. These requests, aimed at implementing critical treatments, are essential for stabilizing burned areas and minimizing potential post-fire hazards. Collaborations with the Department of the Interior (DOI) and USDA Forest Service (USFS) ensure comprehensive support and efficient resource allocation.
Collaborative Efforts and Precautionary Measures
Cooperation with the National Weather Service, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and local land managers remains pivotal. New rain gauges and warning signs are being strategically placed to provide early alerts on potential flooding and debris flows. In partnership with the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Army Corps of Engineers, and other stakeholders, proactive measures are being implemented to safeguard at-risk areas and communities.
Recent Developments and Impact Awareness
Recent media coverage, such as the New York Times article on post-fire flooding impacts, underscores the critical nature of our ongoing efforts. Read more about the evolving situation and our response strategies here.
Current Focus Areas
Salt Fire:
Ongoing assessment of structures along the Highway 70 corridor.
Evaluation of hazard tree removal needs around critical infrastructures.
Reassessment of Eagle Lake Campground and road access to Ski Apache following recent rainstorms.
Consideration of reforestation efforts to rehabilitate high-mortality timber areas.
South Fork Fire:
Identification of moderate to high soil burn severity areas using the SBS map.
Debris flow modeling to assess downstream risks during potential storm events.
Preparation of initial funding requests for targeted treatments within national forest boundaries.
Challenges and Immediate Actions
Despite the imminent risk of flooding in Upper Canyon and along Highway 70 due to forecasted rains, BAER operations continue uninterrupted. Our commitment to completing critical assessments and prioritizing treatments remains steadfast, ensuring ongoing protection and recovery efforts.
Plan for Today
Final delivery of SBS and USGS Debris Flow maps for the Salt Fire.
Completion of multiple-layered Watershed Response Models for both fire areas.
Continued risk assessment and prioritization of treatments for recreation, archeological sites, and wildlife habitats.
Contact:
BAER Documentation Specialist
Stephanie Trumbull
Administrative Officer, Office of Emergency Management
U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs
Cell: (208) 277-5052
Website: bia.gov/oem Email: BIA_OEM@bia.gov
Stay updated with the latest developments on the Village of Ruidoso municipal website’s South Fork and Salt Fire Information Hub.
Original press release.
