The Calf Canyon/Hermit’s Peak fires burned over 340,000 acres of homes, buildings, land, forest, and pastures in our beautiful Northern New Mexico this spring and summer. The fire devastated communities in and around Las Vegas, Sapello, Rociada, Mora, Ledoux, and Pendaries. The Gallinas River watershed has been seriously damaged, which put the Las Vegas water supply at risk. Some wells are now showing high levels of e coli and other fire-related contaminates. Pastureland is covered with ash, and is being invaded by noxious plants that are not suitable for grazing. Many of our clients lost homes that their families have held for generations, along with animals, equipment, and even wells. Retaining ponds have been destroyed with thick ash and debris. Some of our clients relied on their forested land for income, and now have nothing left for their future.
Both fires were ignited by the United States Forest Service as “prescribed burns.” These fires were started despite historic drought conditions and the high winds we expect during New Mexico’s spring season.
After the fires became the largest wildfire in New Mexico History, the monsoon season brought devastating floods. Those floods washed ash, soil, trees and rocks down the mountains and into our clients’ properties and water tables.
Congress approved the Calf Canyon Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act to compensate victims of these fires. So far, up to $2.5 billion is available to pay claims. We are working with our clients to put together the most comprehensive claims packages we can based on expert assessments and reports. These claims will include losses that were not paid by FEMA or insurance. We are seeking damages for economic losses, business losses, and financial losses, to the full extent of what the Fire Assistance Act allows. We are leaving no stone unturned in fighting for our Northern New Mexico neighbors and friends.
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