April 1, 2026: The Village of Ruidoso has released a draft 2026 floodplain map based on a recent hydrologic and hydraulic study. The interactive map includes both current (2025) and draft floodplain data, allowing residents to compare potential changes. Final adoption is pending approval by DHSEM and FEMA. Residents are encouraged to review the map to understand possible impacts.

The April 2026 Ruidoso Insider highlights election results, infrastructure progress, and wildfire preparedness. Voter-approved GO Bond funding supports essential upgrades, while major water projects and legislative updates shape the Village’s future. Explore community news, seasonal safety tips, hiring opportunities, and spring events.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions take effect across Lincoln National Forest at 8:00 a.m. on March 27, 2026, due to increasing fire danger. Campfires are limited to Forest Service fire rings in developed sites, and propane stoves are permitted with precautions. Restrictions apply forest-wide through September 30, 2026, or until lifted.

Free well water testing will be available to Ruidoso residents on Saturday, March 28 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 2917 Sudderth Drive. Open to private well owners, the event is free for the first 100 participants. Residents must bring their own water samples. Results will be mailed within two to three weeks.

Ruidoso residents are invited to attend Flood Preparedness Workshops on May 6, May 20, and June 3 from 6–8 PM. Learn about flash flooding, burn scar runoff, weather alerts, and how to prepare for the 2026 monsoon season following the impacts of the 2025 floods.

Updated March 25, 2026: Additional program information and forms are now available.

Lincoln County and partner agencies will host a community meeting on March 25 at ENMU–Ruidoso to share information about the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP), including voluntary property buyout options, eligibility, and next steps following recent fire and flood impacts. A virtual attendance option is also available.

The Lincoln National Forest has raised its fire danger rating from Moderate to High across all three ranger districts as of March 16, 2026. Dry vegetation and windy conditions increase the risk of wildfire. Visitors are urged to practice campfire safety, avoid burning on windy days, and ensure all fires are completely extinguished.

The Ruidoso Fire Department has released information on its latest ISO fire protection classification. Learn what factors affected the department’s Class 3 rating and the steps underway to strengthen staffing, training, water system testing, dispatch capabilities, and other areas to work toward regaining a Class 2 ISO rating.

The Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter will host two guided educational hikes in the Ruidoso area this April. The trips explore Bonito Lake’s geology and water systems as well as the impact of wildfire and flooding on local forests. Both events are open to the public with advance registration through the Sierra Club.

Residents of Ruidoso may be affected by PNM Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) during extreme wildfire conditions. The Village is helping the community prepare through emergency alerts, resiliency centers, and preparedness resources. Residents are encouraged to review safety plans, register for alerts, and stay informed.

The March 2026 Village of Ruidoso Insider highlights the March 3 municipal election and $3 million GO Bond question supporting water infrastructure improvements with no tax increase. The issue also features Village Council updates, bridge and flood recovery projects, a new waste-to-fuel agreement, helipad construction at LCMC, Firewise reminders, safety initiatives, and upcoming spring events.

The Village of Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management is asking residents to complete the REACH Survey to report disaster-related property impacts. Survey responses help officials assess community damage, coordinate with County and State partners, and connect residents with available recovery assistance programs.

Safe Skies New Mexico launches a 2026 statewide aviation safety seminar series offering no-cost, in-person training and FAA WINGS credit for NM pilots, aircraft owners, technicians, and aviation professionals. Hosted by NMDOT Aviation Division and the FAA Safety Team, sessions focus on real-world flying in New Mexico’s unique high-altitude environment.

The Village of Ruidoso and Independent Power USA are advancing a proposed $139 million waste-to-fuel facility that would convert wildfire debris and non-hazardous biomass into renewable diesel and biochar. The project is expected to create more than 100 construction jobs and 86 permanent positions, support forest thinning, and reduce landfill waste.

Lincoln National Forest has begun post-fire flood mitigation in Perk, Brady, and Upper Cedar Creek Canyons near Ruidoso. Crews are installing large woody debris structures to slow runoff, reduce erosion, and stabilize fire-impacted drainages following the South Fork Fire. Temporary area closures may be in effect.

The Ruidoso Police Department is now accepting applications for the Spring 2026 Citizens Police Academy, held March 5–May 7 on Thursdays from 6–9 PM. This community program offers residents an inside look at local law enforcement operations. Apply by February 26, 2026. Graduation will be held May 15.

The Lincoln National Forest plans prescribed pile burning on the Smokey Bear Ranger District from February 10–13, 2026, weather permitting. The Ruidoso Lookout Tower project will treat approximately 10 acres to reduce hazardous fuels, improve forest health, and lower wildfire risk. Residents in Ruidoso, Alto, Ruidoso Downs, and Hondo Valley may experience smoke; temporary area closures are possible.

NOAA Weather Radios are required by ordinance in all short-term rentals in Ruidoso to support guest safety and emergency preparedness. These radios provide real-time alerts for flooding, wildfire, and severe weather, even when cell service or power is limited. Learn how hosts can comply and where radios are available.

Lincoln National Forest is assessing trails in the South Fork and Blue 2 Fire scar areas as part of ongoing post-fire recovery on the Smokey Bear Ranger District. The work supports public safety and helps guide sustainable trail rehabilitation and future recreation access in and around Ruidoso.

The February 2026 Insider focuses on community planning, civic engagement, and Ruidoso’s future. Highlights include Mayor Crawford’s reflections on the Comprehensive Master Plan Charrette, State of the Village updates, March 2026 Municipal Election and GO Bond information, recovery and infrastructure projects, school and ENMU–Ruidoso updates, community partner news, and winter events.