The Blue 2 Fire remains at 48 acres in the White Mountain Wilderness, burning in an area affected by the 2012 Little Bear fire. Command will transfer to the Albuquerque Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team on May 23. Crews are assessing trails and roadways for containment lines. Access to parts of the National Forest wilderness is restricted. Light smoke is visible, but significant community impact is not expected.

In response to the ongoing Blue 2 wildfire, the U.S. Forest Service has issued an area closure order for all National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within and around the White Mountain Wilderness, from NFSR 107 and Big Bonito Trail #36, to Aspen Trail #35, Crest Trail #25, Rodamaker Trail #20, and back to NFSR 107. This closure is essential to protect firefighter personnel and the public, as suppression tactics actively manage the wildfire.

The Village of Ruidoso announces construction at 603 Mechem to add ten workforce homes in May and June. Extensive earthwork is ongoing, and traffic is being managed to minimize disruptions. Brief traffic stops may occur as modular units are moved onto the property. These homes will enhance the village's vibrancy.

The Blue Fire remains at 0.5 acres with no growth, while the Blue 2 Fire holds at 45 acres. The strategy is to monitor the Blue 2 Fire, allowing it to follow its natural course due to unsafe conditions for direct engagement. This approach aligns with managing fires in designated wilderness areas, supporting the natural ecosystem. Continuous monitoring ensures the protection of nearby land and resources. More details are available on NM Fire Info and InciWeb.

Based on aerial observations, the Blue Fire remains at 0.5 acres, while the Blue 2 Fire has spread to 45 acres as of May 20, 2024. The remote location and severe terrain prevent direct engagement, so alternate containment strategies are in place. Smoke is visible from Ruidoso and nearby areas. The fires are being monitored to protect private land and resources while allowing them to play their natural role in the wilderness.

The Blue and Blue 2 Fires, caused by lightning on May 17 in the White Mountain Wilderness, are being closely monitored. The Blue Fire remains stable, while the Blue 2 Fire has spread to 10 acres. Due to remote and rugged terrain, direct containment is unsafe. Efforts focus on maintaining safe boundaries and protecting nearby resources. Smoke may be visible from Ruidoso and surrounding areas. More updates are available via the incident weblink

The Village of Ruidoso is monitoring the Blue Fires, which may grow due to red flag conditions. Detected on May 17 in the White Mountain Wilderness, these fires cover approximately 0.5 acres. The strategy is to allow natural spread while protecting private land and resources. Smoke and aircraft activity will be noticeable. Stay updated via http://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/nmlnf-blue-fire for more information.

Now, more than ever, local news matters. Vol. 33: MAY 2024: This issue of the Village of Ruidoso Insider newsletter covers municipal news and events, bringing information about the people, businesses, schools, nonprofits, and local government decisions and projects important to the Ruidoso community.

The Village of Ruidoso, NM, has implemented Level II fire restrictions effective immediately on Friday, April 19, 2024, at Noon. These additional fire protections will remain in effect until officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire.

Lincoln National Forest raises fire danger rating to "high" effective April 19, 2024. Visitors are urged to use caution with campfires; human activities are a major cause of wildfires. Safety measures include thorough extinguishment of fires and avoiding dry areas. More info: www.fs.usda.gov/lincoln.

Don't miss the College and Job Fair at ENMU-Ruidoso hosted by New Mexico Workforce Connection. Open to all seeking work or educational opportunities, the event will feature representatives from schools, businesses, and the military. Drop by any time between 10 AM and 6 PM at ENMU-Ruidoso, 709 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM. Contact 575-315-1120 for details.

Beginning April 9, 2024, Mountain States Constructors, Inc. (MSCI) will start a road improvement project on N.M. 48 (Sudderth/Mechem) in Ruidoso lasting 4-6 weeks (weather permitting). The project spans from Mile Post 0 to 3.3, with mill and fill operations aiming to enhance road quality and safety. Business access remains unaffected, but drivers should expect minor delays due to lane closures. Work hours are 6 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Friday, with no weekend construction.

The Smokey Bear Ranger District on the Lincoln National Forest will conduct prescribed burns in the Cedar Creek Prescribed Burn Project Area from April 9 to 19, 2024. Due to current conditions, the dates can be subject to change. Crews will be targeting slash piles on approximately 87 acres within the 730-acre Cedar Creek Prescribed Burn Project Area. Exact ignition dates depend upon agency administrator approval and can be postponed on short notice due to developing conditions at the burn site.

Now, more than ever, local news matters. Vol. 32: APRIL 2024: This issue of the Village of Ruidoso Insider newsletter covers municipal news and events, bringing information about the people, businesses, schools, nonprofits, and local government decisions and projects important to the Ruidoso community.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved the five-year update for the Lincoln County Multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan through March 19, 2029; Lincoln County, the Village of Ruidoso, the Town of Carrizozo, the Village of Capitan, and the Village of Corona are included in the approval. We anticipate Ruidoso Downs will also be included in the Approval in April. The final version of the Hazard Mitigation Plan is expected to be posted by the end of April for download here.

Exciting news! "The Lost Bus" filming kicks off in Ruidoso from April 1-15, 2024. Stay updated on locations, traffic changes, and more. With over 1,050 participants at casting events and a successful Film Industry Jobs Forum, Ruidoso is set to shine in the entertainment industry. Visit https://ruidoso-nm.gov/film-office for updates.

The Village of Ruidoso launches the 603 Mechem Drive project, advancing its workforce housing initiative. Ten new homes, blending modern convenience with traditional charm, are set to enrich the community. Key developments include upgraded utility lines, high-speed internet, and sustainable sewer/water systems. Construction activities promise transformation, underscoring Ruidoso's commitment to a vibrant and sustainable future.

Help us to create a positive change and lasting impact in Ruidoso by joining our 2024 Great American Cleanup on April 21 at Wingfield Park. There will be shirts, food, and prize giveaways for volunteers. Registration begins at 12:30, and clean up is from 1 to 4 pm. Gloves, vests, bags, and t-shirts are provided.

Now, more than ever, local news matters. Vol. 31: MARCH 2024: This issue of the Village of Ruidoso Insider newsletter covers municipal news and events, bringing information about the people, businesses, schools, nonprofits, and local government decisions and projects important to the Ruidoso community.

Today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced a $500M investment from Biden’s agenda to expand the USDA’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy, crucial for Ruidoso in Lincoln National Forest. The Collaborative Wildfire Risk Reduction Program empowers local stakeholders to reduce wildfire risk and boost forest health.