Post-Fire Flood Mitigation Work Begins in South Fork Fire Scar
February 13, 2026 (Ruidoso, NM) — Flood mitigation and watershed recovery efforts are underway in areas impacted by the South Fork Fire, as the Smokey Bear Ranger District of the Lincoln National Forest begins implementing restoration work in key drainages near Ruidoso.
With support from the U.S. Forest Service’s National Stream and Aquatic Ecology Center (NSAEC), the National Forest Foundation, and Rio Grande Return, crews will begin installing large woody debris structures designed to slow floodwaters and stabilize fire-impacted stream systems.
Beginning in February, work will focus on:
• Perk Canyon
• Brady Canyon
• Upper Cedar Creek Canyon
Using dead standing trees within the burn scar, crews will strategically fell and place large woody debris in stream channels and adjacent floodplains. These structures increase floodplain roughness, which helps slow water during high-flow events, reduce erosion, and support long-term watershed restoration.
All work will occur on National Forest System lands.
What This Means for Residents and Visitors
This project is part of a broader strategy to stabilize fire-impacted drainages, restore natural stream function, and improve conditions for future access and recreation.
Temporary area closures may be in place for several days while crews are actively working. Residents and visitors are asked to watch for posted warning signs along roads and trails near active mitigation sites and to respect all closures for public safety.
The Lincoln National Forest remains committed to protecting public safety while supporting long-term recovery of watersheds affected by the South Fork Fire.
Project Area Map
Map courtesy of the Lincoln National Forest.
For additional updates from the Lincoln National Forest, visit the LNF website and follow the Smokey Bear Ranger District on Facebook.
