Concept

It is widely accepted that removal of natural low intensity fire from southwest Ponderosa pine ecosystems has resulted in overcrowded forest stands. Consequences of this overcrowding include increased susceptibility to insect infestations and plant pathogens as well as increased risk to catastrophic wildfires.

From a local and human perspective, declining forest health puts Ruidoso’s community values at risk. These include public safety, economics, watershed values, recreational opportunities, wildlife habitat, healthy ecosystems, scenic vistas, historical and cultural sites, community peace-of-mind, and public support of local government. To develop a community wide fuels reduction program, three key elements must be considered. First, planning the program must include stakeholders and incorporate the best science with available resources. Ruidoso collaborates on the “big picture” with eight other land management agencies by coordinating the Greater Ruidoso Area Wildland Urban Interface Working Group.

(above:looking south at the intersection of Sudderth

and Mechem, also Grindstone Lake)

Second, implementing the systems of cutting, harvesting, transporting, and utilizing or disposing of forest material must encourage sustainable methods to insure long term stability.   The Village mandates fuels management on all property, then collects and delivers forest debris to a local mulch and compost facility, Sierra Contracting Inc., where they recycle 100% of the material. Third, engaging the general public must include as many portals to information sources as is available. This includes web sites, TV spots, printed material, workshops, lot assessments, etc. Public awareness and acceptance of the challenges are essential to a successful Community Forest Management Plan.

                                                                                                                              (above: lot on left in compliance with Ordinance2004-04;                                                                                                                                 lot on right not done)

The current size of the Forestry Department, capacity of the forest debris pick-up service, and pool of forest contractors, indicate it will take until 2010 to complete the initial treatments on 13 thousand acres of private land. Concurrent with the initial treatment will be required bi-yearly pine needle raking to maintain defensible space compliance.