The Village of Ruidoso has proclaimed May 17, 2025, as Wildfire Community Preparedness Day. Residents are urged to clear brush, create evacuation plans, and sign up for alerts at CallMeRuidoso.com. With current Level II and Stage 2 fire restrictions in place, every action counts in making Ruidoso a safer, fire-adapted community.

Landowners impacted by the South Fork or Salt Fires can apply for USDA Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) assistance through Lincoln County. The deadline to submit applications is May 31, 2025. To apply, visit scmrcd.org. EWP helps protect property from post-fire erosion and flood risk.

Small businesses impacted by a natural disaster since January 2024 may be eligible for a $10,000 recovery grant through the Backing Small Businesses program, supported by American Express. Only 100 grants are available nationwide. Apply by Wednesday, May 21 at 11:59 p.m. CT. Don’t miss this chance to support recovery. Learn more »

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions went into effect at 8:00 a.m. on May 7, 2025, across all three districts of Lincoln National Forest due to very high fire danger. Open flames, smoking, off-road vehicle use, and certain tools are restricted. Violations are subject to fines and jail time. Details and updates are available on the NM Fire Info website.

Ruidoso is ready for a vibrant summer with the return of the Ruidoso Downs Race Track, global athletic events from XTERRA and IRONMAN, and a full lineup of music, festivals, and community celebrations. Recovery continues with new housing, fire safety efforts, and floodplain updates. The spirit of resilience shines as Ruidoso rebuilds and welcomes the world.

Elk Meadows, a 72-unit apartment community in Ruidoso, is now underway, offering modern, energy-efficient homes for local families and workers. Backed by $15M in state tax credits and developed in partnership with Enriched Communities LLC, the Village of Ruidoso, and others, the project includes on-site services and is set for completion by fall 2026.

Effective April 18, 2025, the Lincoln National Forest has raised its fire danger rating to “very high” across all districts. Fires can now start easily, spread rapidly, and behave unpredictably. Emergency fire restrictions are in place. Visitors should exercise caution. Details: www.fs.usda.gov/lincoln.

The Village of Ruidoso has been selected to host its first-ever IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon on July 11–12, 2026. The announcement was made during an official press conference on April 16. The high-altitude race is expected to draw athletes and visitors from around the globe to experience Ruidoso’s scenic mountain terrain and vibrant community.

Ruidoso, New Mexico, has been named the Best Small Town Cultural Scene in the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This honor highlights Ruidoso’s vibrant arts, music, and community spirit. Officially announced on April 9, 2025, Ruidoso topped the list of cultural destinations, showcasing its unique blend of creativity and community pride. Visit DiscoverRuidoso.com for more details.

The Village of Ruidoso invites residents to participate in public hearings on community recovery grants funded by the $137.1 million CDBG-DR program. These grants support recovery from disasters like the South Fork Fire, Salt Fire, and severe flooding. Attend in-person hearings at ENMU Ruidoso to share your input. Visit dhsem.nm.gov/cdbg-dr2025/ for meeting details and ways to provide input. Your voice matters!

New short-term rental rules in Ruidoso aim to boost safety and community well-being. Updates include permit fees ($300), annual inspections (compliance reinspections $50), occupancy limits (2 adults per sleeping unit), and stricter fire safety. Stay informed and compliant!

The feature film Dead Letters, starring Emmy-winner Margo Martindale, has wrapped filming in Ruidoso and Las Cruces Directed by David Drake, the film follows a long-haul truck driver confronting her past as her daughter’s murderer faces parole. The production, employing over 100 local New Mexicans, highlights Ruidoso’s cinematic appeal and the state’s film-friendly incentives.

Spring is here, and Ruidoso is buzzing with updates! From fire safety tips and new community projects to local student achievements and a jam-packed event calendar, the April Insider has it all. Stay informed on Village Council actions, healthcare upgrades, and exciting happenings like the Great American Cleanup. Dive in and celebrate Ruidoso’s vibrant season of renewal!

The Village of Ruidoso Community Development Department has released the final floodplain map, providing essential information for property owners on rebuilding, permitting, and future construction standards. The map shows areas affected by floodplain and floodway regulations. Residents are encouraged to review the map and FAQs to understand potential impacts. For more information, call 575- 258-6999.

The Wingfield Heritage House Museum and Ruidoso Public Library are launching the Time Turner History Book Club in May 2025! Led by museum curator Stephanie Long, the club meets on the second Thursday of each month at 12:30 pm at the Ruidoso Library. Explore historical books, share insights, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Light refreshments provided. Visit the library website for more details!

The Village of Ruidoso is adding 99.1 FM to KRUI 1490 AM – The Mountain, expanding local radio reach and clarity. The FM signal is set to launch by April 1, 2025, boosting access to news, safety updates, and new shows. Listeners can tune in live or replay programs on demand at 1490Krui.com, strengthening regional connection and engagement.

The XTERRA World Championship returns to U.S. soil with a multi-year home in Ruidoso, NM, hosting the elite off-road triathlon in 2026, 2027, and 2028. A preview weekend August 15–17, 2025, will feature races, family fun, and festivities. Ruidoso’s alpine terrain and warm hospitality promise a world-class adventure experience.

The Wingfield Heritage House Museum is forming a new Friends of the Museum group to raise funds and awareness. Volunteers are needed to serve as board members and officers. A focus group meeting will be held Friday, April 25 at 10 AM at the Ruidoso Public Library. Interested? Email friendsofthewingfield2024@gmail.com or call 575-257-5559 to get involved.

Starting March 17, the Ruidoso Forestry Department will launch two major fire prevention efforts. A 30-acre thinning project on Grindstone Lake’s south end and a 71-acre fuel break along Moon Mountain’s west side are designed to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health. These initiatives will use only mechanical treatments to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health, with no prescribed burns planned.

Due to dry conditions, Lincoln National Forest has implemented Stage 1 Fire Restrictions effective March 10, 2025. Campfires and charcoal grills are limited to developed campsites or picnic areas with agency-built fire rings. Dispersed campfires are prohibited, and smoking is restricted to enclosed vehicles or buildings. Chainsaw use remains permitted.