Enchantment State News

President Biden has approved Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for New Mexico. This action will release federal funds to support recovery efforts for the ongoing South Fork Fire and Salt Fire.

“I’m grateful to President Biden for approving the Major Disaster Declaration quickly,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “This federal assistance will help affected residents receive the necessary aid to begin to recover and rebuild their lives.”

The declaration will provide assistance to individuals, households, and businesses in Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Tribe. The governor’s office and Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management are working with the Biden Administration to include Otero County in the disaster declaration.

Public assistance will be available for emergency work and repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities, including debris removal, emergency protective measures, and direct federal assistance for Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Tribe.

Additionally, all areas in New Mexico are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides aid for actions taken to prevent or reduce long-term risks to life and property from natural hazards.

Further designations may be made if requested by the state and justified by ongoing damage assessments.

Individuals in Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Tribe affected by the South Fork and Salt fires can apply for FEMA assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Calls are accepted daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mountain time, with help available in most languages. Those using relay services should provide FEMA with their service number.

To view an accessible video about how to apply, visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.