This memorial recognizes the significant impact of the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon fire on the residents and communities of northeastern New Mexico. The fire, which began on April 6, 2022, due to a prescribed burn gone awry, became the most destructive fire in the state's history, burning over 341,000 acres and leading to extensive damage to homes, businesses, and the environment. As of January 2025, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) had only disbursed approximately $1.8 billion of the $5.45 billion allocated for claims, leaving many affected individuals still awaiting compensation. The memorial highlights the ongoing struggles faced by the community, including severe flooding, emotional trauma, and loss of cultural identity.
The resolution calls for the recognition of the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon fire as the most destructive fire in New Mexico's history and asserts that claimants are entitled to full compensation from the federal government. It emphasizes the need for additional resources and legislation to address the cascading effects of the fire and to prevent future disasters. The memorial also acknowledges the efforts of local groups and individuals who have supported recovery efforts in the region and urges the transmission of copies of the memorial to key stakeholders, including the governor and the New Mexico congressional delegation.