Southern Baptist Disaster Relief is providing free tree removal, chainsaw services, and debris cleanup for Ruidoso residents affected by the January 2026 winter storm. Learn where and how to register for no-cost disaster relief assistance, including intake location, hours, and phone registration details.

Lincoln National Forest plans prescribed pile burning on the Smokey Bear Ranger District from January 29 through February 1, pending favorable weather and approvals. The work will reduce hazardous fuels near Ruidoso, including areas around the Ruidoso Lookout Tower and McBride Fire Scar. Temporary closures and smoke impacts are possible.

The Village of Ruidoso has declared a local emergency following the January winter storm to support response and recovery efforts. The declaration allows coordination with county and state partners, documents storm impacts, and preserves eligibility for assistance if needed. Residents are encouraged to report storm-related damages through the REACH Survey.

The Village of Ruidoso has released the 2026 State of the Village report, outlining recovery progress, financial stability, infrastructure investments, and key priorities for the year ahead. Presented by Mayor Lynn D. Crawford, the report highlights community resilience, transparency, and long-term planning.

The Village of Ruidoso Forestry Department has begun a 35-acre tree thinning project on the west side of Grindstone Lake. Work will continue for up to 90 days and includes temporary trail closures for public safety. Visitors should follow posted signage and avoid restricted areas during operations.

Mayor Lynn Crawford issued a statement on January 19, 2026, announcing that Ruidoso Downs Race Track will not host the 2026 racing season due to flood-related damage. The 2026 meet will be held at the Downs at Albuquerque, while sales events and casino operations will continue in Ruidoso.

The Village of Ruidoso invites final public comments on proposed improvement concepts for Sudderth Drive, from traffic through the intersection with Mechem Drive. Community input will inform the selection of a preferred concept. Review the concepts and submit feedback by Friday, December 26, 2025 at usrp-ruidoso.com.

December 19, 2025: The Village of Ruidoso recognizes four longtime employees entering retirement, honoring decades of service across Forestry, Solid Waste, Water Production, and Parks & Recreation. Their dedication, leadership, and commitment have made a lasting impact on the organization and the community they proudly served.

A new thinning project is underway on Lower Crown Drive in the Camelot area of Ruidoso to improve neighborhood safety and reduce wildfire risk. As part of the WUI Barrier Project, crews will thin 20 acres and begin treatments across 250 contracted acres. Residents may see equipment and posted signage in active areas as this multi-year wildfire mitigation effort progresses.

Christmas tree permits for Lincoln National Forest are available online through Dec. 31 and in person at the Ruidoso and Cloudcroft district offices, Nov. 17–Dec. 24. Permits cost $10 plus a $2.50 online fee. Cutting begins Nov. 17. Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass qualify for a free permit. Check Recreation.gov for maps, designated areas, and current forest alerts. There is a limit of one permit per household.

Filming has wrapped in Ruidoso for Hope Ranch, a new TV movie from Alison Sweeney. The production brought jobs, vendor spending, and statewide visibility as the community recovers from recent flooding. Featuring local crews and New Mexico’s rural film incentive, the project highlights Ruidoso’s beauty and resilience as a welcoming film destination.

October 21, 2025: The Village of Ruidoso proudly recognizes its Employees and Department of the Quarter for exceptional service and dedication. Honorees include Gina Corliss (Administration), Dontrell Sims (Community Services), Willie Herrera (Public Works), Officer Jimmy Hernandez (Public Safety), and the Ruidoso Public Library for its innovative community programming and inclusive spirit.

Prescribed fire operations are planned for Oct. 21, 2025, on the Smokey Bear Ranger District of Lincoln National Forest, pending approvals and weather. Crews will burn two acres of hand piles to reduce hazardous fuels and protect against future wildfires. Smoke may affect Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, and Alto. Visit fire.airnow.gov for air quality info. Closures and delays possible.

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.

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.

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.

August 25, 2025: 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.

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.

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.

Status Update (September 2025): The Upper Canyon area is now fully open. Thank you to residents and visitors for your patience and cooperation during the closure.