Title
Recognition of the Cerro Grande Fire - 25 Years Later (Accepted by Los Alamos County Fire Department's Acting Fire Chief, Wendy Servey)
Body
WHEREAS, on May 4, 2000, a prescribed burn on Cerro Grande Peak in Bandelier National Monument grew out of control, leading to the evacuation of Los Alamos on May 10 and White Rock on May 11; and
WHEREAS, before the fire was fully contained one month later, more than 400 families in the North Community and Western Area of Los Alamos had lost their homes-marking one of the most devastating and defining moments in our community’s history; and
WHEREAS, 25 years later, we have rebuilt our homes, restored our community, and renewed our sense of purpose-yet we continue to reflect on the lasting impact of the Cerro Grande fire, and the resilience, unity, and compassion that it inspired across Los Alamos County and beyond; and
WHEREAS, we remain deeply grateful to our Northern New Mexico neighbors, and to individuals and organizations across the state who opened their homes, churches, and shelters to support us in our time of need; and
WHEREAS, we also thank our local, state, and federal representatives who championed the Cerro Grande Fire Assistance Act, securing vital recovery funding, and the many agencies and organizations who stood beside us throughout the crisis and its aftermath; and
WHEREAS, we honor the bravery of Los Alamos County firefighters, police officers, emergency responders, public works and utilities crews, and all County employees who worked tirelessly to keep us safe and lead a recovery; and
WHEREAS, since Cerro Grande, our community has faced new wildfire threats, including the Las Conchas fire in 2011 and the Cerro Pelado fire in 2022-neither as destructive, thanks to important lessons learned, stronger preparedness, and a shared commitment to forest health; and
WHEREAS, the devastation caused by the 2022 Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon fire to our friends and neighbors in Mora and San Miguel counties-and more recent catastrophic wildfires in California, Texas, and Hawaii-remind us that no community is immune to the growing threat of wildfire; we stand in solidarity with those who have endured such losses, and recognize the urgent need for continued preparedness, resilience, and mutual support; and
WHEREAS, today, volunteers, County staff, and partner organizations remain dedicated to trail restoration, fuels reduction, and wildfire resilience-ensuring that the lessons of 2000 are never forgotten, and our community is better protected for the future.
NOW, THEREFORE, on behalf of the Council of the Incorporated County of Los Alamos, I do hereby recognize May 10, 2025, as the
“25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CERRO GRANDE FIRE”
and encourage all citizens to share and reflect-on what was lost, what was rebuilt, and what we have gained through courage, compassion, and the enduring spirit of community through the County’s Cerro Grande online form at LACNM.com/CG2025 or email Julie.williams@lacnm.us.