In the March 2025 Ruidoso Insider, Ruidoso gears up for spring with key initiatives, including a Rio Ruidoso de-silting project to prevent flooding and free debris removal services for fire-affected residents. With Spring Break visitors expected to boost the local economy, the Village also urges homeowners to prepare for wildfire season. Let’s work together to keep Ruidoso vibrant, safe, and welcoming!
The Village of Ruidoso is hosting a Job Fair on March 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Ruidoso Convention Center (111 Sierra Blanca Drive). Explore career opportunities in public service with competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and room for professional growth. On-the-spot interviews, on-site screenings, and temporary summer positions available. Don’t miss this chance to explore new career opportunities!
The Village of Ruidoso honored its top team members for Q4 2024. The Finance Department was named Department of the Quarter for outstanding financial management. Individual awards went to Richard Butler (Public Works), Christy Coker (Administration), Amanda Castillo (Community Services), and Simon Haase (Public Safety). Mayor Lynn Crawford praised their dedication and positive impact on the community.
The Village of Ruidoso is proactively responding to PNM’s Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) to mitigate wildfire risks. While the Village does not control shutoff decisions, it is working with local partners to keep residents informed and prepared. Emergency plans include resiliency centers, alert systems, and resources for those with medical needs. Residents are urged to plan ahead and stay informed.
Join the Sierra Club’s A Decade of Forest Fires – Ruidoso Hike on March 22, 2025, from 10 AM – 12 PM. This moderate, 3.5-mile hike through Cedar Creek Trails explores fire-scarred landscapes and forest recovery, with scenic views of Sierra Blanca and Ski Apache. Limited to 10 participants; RSVP by March 20. No dogs; ages 14+ with a guardian. Register: www.riograndesierraclub.org/calendar.
February 10, 2025 – Effective immediately, Lincoln National Forest has raised its fire danger rating from “moderate” to “high” due to low moisture levels and forecasted dry conditions. Fires can now start and spread easily, especially in grassy or wooded areas. Visitors are urged to follow fire safety guidelines and ensure campfires are fully extinguished.
The Wingfield Heritage House Museum invites families to Hands-on History Family Day on Saturday, March 1, from 10 AM to 2 PM. This free event offers interactive activities, including retro games, handwriting practice, crafts, a historic photo booth, and museum exploration. Located at 2813 Sudderth Drive, the museum showcases Ruidoso’s rich history.
The Village of Ruidoso alerts residents to three post-fire recovery programs for private landowners impacted by the South Fork Fire. Each program is independently funded and requires separate applications. The NM Forestry Division provides watershed stabilization and hazard tree mitigation, NRCS offers emergency watershed protection, and NM DHSEM provides full-service debris removal. Landowners can apply via the provided QR codes or agency websites.
In the February 2025 Ruidoso Insider, recent snowfall takes center stage, revitalizing tourism and water resources as the community prepares for a busy Spring Break. Mayor Lynn Crawford shares updates on wildfire recovery efforts and emphasizes the importance of protecting water systems through proper fat, oil, and grease disposal. February also brings major school renovations and events like the Vines in the Pines Wine Festival and free spay/neuter services.
The Lincoln National Forest is planning to conduct prescribed fire operations on the Sacramento Ranger District beginning Jan. 31, through Feb. 14, 2025, depending on weather and ground conditions.
Ruidoso shines as the ultimate Christmas movie destination in Santa’s Cousin, directed by Ross Marks. This heartwarming holiday film captures the town’s festive spirit, from its wild horses to the beloved Festival of Lights Parade. Though much was filmed in Las Cruces, Ruidoso remains central to the story. With local inspiration and community support, Santa’s Cousin highlights Ruidoso’s charm as a must-visit holiday destination.
Mayor Lynn D. Crawford’s 2025 State of the Village address highlights Ruidoso’s resilience and progress following last summer’s wildfires and floods. Key achievements include a $53M cash balance, FEMA-supported recovery projects, tourism marketing, and workforce housing development. Public safety, sustainable tourism, and infrastructure remain top priorities. “Together, Ruidoso will emerge stronger,” said Crawford.
