Help Garrett Nutting Rebuild After the South Fork Fire

On Monday morning, June 17th, two separate fires started on the Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation—the South Fork fire and the Salt fire. These fires forced the entire village of 8,000 people to evacuate within 24 hours, with few staying behind. The fires have now burned over a combined 25,000 acres and destroyed over 1,400 structures.

Garrett Nutting, born and raised in Cedar Creek, is one of the Lincoln National Forest Smokey Bear Hotshots and a cherished member of the Ruidoso community. Following in the footsteps of his father, Orin Nutting, Garrett has dedicated much of his life to firefighting and forest conservation. Garrett has served with distinction for 13 years and is now a squad boss, leading his team through grueling and dangerous conditions to protect lives, homes, and the forest. In his first season, Garrett battled the Little Bear Fire, another devastating fire in the Ruidoso area. He was one of the first dispatched to the South Fork fire, working tirelessly to combat the blaze.

Garrett's family has a long history in Cedar Creek. The Nuttings have been a part of the community for generations, with their roots deeply embedded in the area. Orin Nutting, Garrett's father, has a storied history with the Smokey Bear Hotshots, dedicating his career to fighting wildfires across the country and mentoring many young firefighters along the way.

Garrett was working on the South Fork fire when he was unable to save his own home, a short distance from his family home in Cedar Creek. He, his girlfriend Kora, and his parents, Tish and Orin, all lost their homes. Fortunately, they managed to save their bird, Zuko, and their two blue heelers, Jax and Dakota, but they were unable to take much else.

Call to Action:

Garrett works incredibly hard all summer in conditions that most of us wouldn’t even begin to comprehend. The crews work day and night, all over the country, no matter the weather, ready to protect people, their homes, and the forest.

Our goal is to help Garrett and his family start their journey to rebuild. It's going to be a long road, and they are going to need all the help and support they can get. Please consider donating anything you can to support them and show them that we are a community that loves and stands behind them, especially in these circumstances.

About Us:

My name is Eliana Figueroa, and I grew up in Ruidoso—it's home. Garrett and Kora are my friends, and I've known both of them since high school. Along with myself, Evan Locke and Erin Locke, Garrett’s sister, are also working to support them through this difficult time. All funds raised will be used towards rebuilding their lives, including a new home, clothes, essentials, and simply starting brand new. I can assure you that every single penny will go to Garrett, Kora, and their family.

Thank You:

Thank you so much for your donation. Your support means a lot!