Forest Service partners with Neighbors Helping Neighbors to distribute firewood to local communities

The Santa Fe National Forest is partnering with the Santa Fe Community Foundation and the United Methodist Committee on Relief/Neighbors Helping Neighbors to provide firewood directly to those impacted by the Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon fires.

An agreement was recently signed that provided $200,000 dollars to support this locally based organization   in providing fuelwood to communities. As part of the agreement, hazard trees from the Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon fire areas will be cut and delivered directly to households in Mora and San Miguel Counties.

“The funds from the Forest Service have enabled us to provide wood to our residents in Mora and San Miguel Counties,” said Janna Lopez, UMCOR/NHN Disaster Case Manager for Neighbors Helping Neighbors. “This gives residents a bit of relief to allow them to buy more wood for the winter.”

The contractor, Old Wood, is providing 150 cords of wood and 50 bags of kindling during the first phase of the project. Michael Benjamin is the contractor for Mora County and Charles Martinez is the contractor for San Miguel County.

Wood will be distributed to residents starting next week. Wood distribution is prioritized for flood and fire impacted individuals and families. Others in need will be put on a list as we determine if there is enough funding and wood . Please contact Janna Lopez at (505) 429-2062 or (505) 434-7283 for those in need of firewood.