PNM to Conduct Utility Work on Gavilan Canyon Road and Hollywood Substation Area, October 20–24, 2025
PNM crews will conduct utility work in Ruidoso from Oct. 20–24, 2025, affecting areas near the Hollywood Substation and Gavilan Canyon Road. Expect shoulder work, lane reductions, and temporary road closures between Meander, Sutton, Warrior, and Prospect. Traffic control measures, including signs, barricades, and flaggers, will be in place to assist motorists.
FEMA Assistance October 15 Deadline Approaches for June–July 2025 Flooding
Residents of Lincoln and Doña Ana counties affected by the June–July 2025 flooding have until October 15, 2025, to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance. Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, through the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362 for help with housing, repairs, and disaster recovery needs.
Grant Opportunity Supports Small Business Digital Growth in Post-Fire Recovery
As part of post-fire recovery efforts, DHSEM’s Economic Recovery Team shares details on the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant. Fifty $10,000 awards will support small business digital upgrades and operations. Apply by December 10, 2025, at digitalready.verizonwireless.com/grants.
Village Updates Lead and Copper Service Line Inventory to Ensure Safe Drinking Water
The Village of Ruidoso is updating its Lead and Copper Service Line Inventory to meet EPA requirements and ensure safe drinking water. Some residents will receive letters requesting information to update Village records. No lead has been detected. This proactive step helps identify and replace older pipes if needed.
Wingfield House Heritage Museum Marks One-Year Anniversary with Open House & Business After Hours
Celebrate the Wingfield House Heritage Museum anniversary on Thu, Oct 16! Stop by the 2–4 PM Open House with giveaways, activities, and curator-led tours. Then enjoy Business After Hours, 5–7 PM, with light hors d’oeuvres from the Jockey Club, drinks from Downshift Brewing, and live music by the Doso Dirtbags.
Aspenfest Parade 2025 – Traffic Control Plan and Road Closures
Traffic control for the 2025 Aspenfest Parade begins on Saturday, October 4. Detours start at 8:30 a.m. at Mechem and Cree Meadows. All roads along Sudderth Drive will close at 9:30 a.m. for the 10:00 a.m. parade, with detours posted to Hull Road, Paradise Canyon, and Country Club Drive. Plan ahead for delays and enjoy the celebration safely.
Village of Ruidoso Insider - Volume 50: October 2025
In the October 2025 issue of the Village of Ruidoso Insider, Mayor Lynn Crawford reflects on the magic of fall and invites all to AspenFest, while highlighting community resilience after monsoon season. Inside, find Council updates, Ruidoso’s new “Gig-Ready” status, the Wingfield Heritage House Museum’s first anniversary, and fall events across the Village.
Economic Recovery Grant Available for Independent Retailers
Independent retailers impacted by federally declared disasters may be eligible for up to $10,000 through the Economic Recovery Grant from Heart on Main Street. Funds can cover rent, payroll, utilities, and other recovery expenses. Apply online at heartonmainstreet.org or get assistance at the Disaster Recovery Center in the ENMU-Ruidoso Annex.
Village of Ruidoso Launches New Short-Term Rental Software
The Village of Ruidoso will launch a new short-term rental software platform in September, enhancing customer service, compliance, and transparency. The system features AI tracking, a public portal with STR contact info, automated reminders, and a 24-hour complaint hotline. Learn more on the Village’s STR webpage.
Village of Ruidoso Insider - Volume 49: September 2025
In the September 2025 issue of the Village of Ruidoso Insider, read Mayor Crawford’s message on XTERRA Ruidoso’s global success, plus updates on water and sewer repairs, wildfire siren upgrades, and council actions. Find school achievement highlights, employee recognition, job openings, and a full fall events calendar, including the Kite Festival, Oktoberfest, and AspenFest.
Labor Day Weekend: Forest Service Reminds Visitors of Office Closures and Wildfire Prevention
As Labor Day approaches, the Lincoln National Forest reminds visitors that ranger district offices and visitor centers will be closed Monday, September 1, 2025. Travelers are urged to help prevent human-caused wildfires—nine out of ten are human-caused—by following fire safety tips on campfires, vehicles, smoking, and firearms.
Ruidoso Emergency Sirens: What They Mean and When You’ll Hear Them
Ruidoso’s emergency sirens are used only during official wildfire evacuation orders and are tested twice monthly at 5 PM on the 1st and 15th. Flood alerts and other hazards are shared through CallMeRuidoso.com, the RAIN map, NOAA Weather Radio, and local media. Learn what the sirens mean, when they sound, and how to stay informed.
Village of Ruidoso Recognizes Employees and Department of the Quarter
The Village of Ruidoso proudly recognizes its Employees and Department of the Quarter. Honorees include Justin Mize (Fire), Samantha Mars (Public Works), and Johanna Quintana (Human Resources) for their exceptional service and dedication. The Community Development Department is also honored for its collaborative efforts in planning and sustainable growth.
Bluff Springs Closure for Recreational Site Maintenance and Bridge Restoration
Lincoln National Forest has closed the Bluff Springs Recreational Area on the Sacramento Ranger District through December 31, 2025, for maintenance and bridge restoration. The closure includes the parking lot, vault toilets, and Trail 112 bridge. Alternate day-use access remains available via the Willie White Trail (T113).
Full-Service Debris Removal Available for Flooded Properties in Lincoln County
Full-service flood debris removal is now available at no cost to private property owners in Lincoln County through DHSEM’s PPDR program for damage from the June 23 floods/landslides. Sign up at the DRC (ENMU-Ruidoso Annex, 709 Mechem Dr., starting Tue, Aug 19) or download and email the form to DHSEM-DCM@dhsem.nm.gov. More info: DHSEM website or 505-670-4662 (option 4).
Toss No Mas Anti-Litter Campaign
The Toss No Mas Community Clean-Up will be held Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Wingfield Park from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Registrations begin at 12:30 p.m. Trash bags, gloves, snacks, and drinks will be provided. To learn more about youth fundraising opportunities, please call the Ruidoso Parks & Recreation Office at (575) 257-5030.
Village Launches FEMA-Funded Project Progress Page
The Village of Ruidoso now has a FEMA-Funded Project Progress page to keep residents updated on recovery and infrastructure improvements. See a step-by-step infographic outlining the FEMA process and a live spreadsheet tracking each project’s status. Visit: https://www.ruidoso-nm.gov/fema-funded-project-progress.
Governor Lujan Grisham Shares Message of Support for Ruidoso
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks with Tom Dawson about the Village of Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs Race Track, and Lincoln County, praising the community’s resilience during recent recovery efforts. She reaffirms the state’s commitment to helping residents and businesses rebuild. Watch her full message here.
Upper Canyon Closure Begins August 7: Emergency Work to Get Underway for Water and Sewer Lines
The Village of Ruidoso will temporarily close the Upper Canyon area starting August 7, 2025, for emergency water and sewer repairs after flood damage. The area will be inaccessible for up to 14 days, possibly longer. Displaced residents will receive free hotel lodging arranged and paid for by NMDHSEM, with FEMA aid available at the Disaster Resource Center.
Village of Ruidoso Insider - Volume 48: August 2025
In the August 2025 issue of the Village of Ruidoso Insider, read Mayor Crawford’s message on the recent floods, find recovery resources, emergency alert info, and council updates. Discover local events like Brewdoso, XTERRA Ruidoso, and outdoor concerts, plus school news, mural projects, job openings, and more. Stay informed and connected to your Ruidoso community.