It's time to report for Firewise

Our Firewise coordinator has asked me to post this message:

Hello Tesuque Neighbors! Have you trimmed any trees on your property, raked up leaves, or built a patio this year? These are just a few of the activities that can help reduce the risk of a wildfire spreading through our community and contribute to the Tesuque Valley’s standing as a Firewise site since 2017.

Firewise is a national program through which residents can work together to reduce the risks of wildfire (more information at nfpa.org). In order to keep in good standing, we must file an annual report showing any work done to mitigate fire danger on properties throughout our community. Please take a minute and email me (rachel3white@gmail.com) by November 1 with a quick note about any time you have spent or expenses you have incurred doing things that reduce the risk of fire danger since last November. Something simple like: Name: Address: Activities performed: Hours worked: $ spent: If you did the work yourself, please estimate the hours spent on these activities and/or if you paid someone to do the work for you, please report the approximate amount that you paid. Last year, 27 properties reported - let’s try to beat that this year! It is very likely that you have engaged in at least one of these activities! These can include: - raking leaves - mowing lawns and trimming weeds and natural grasses - cleaning up debris piles - thinning/trimming trees - adding hardscape (patio, stonewalls, driveways) around your home - cleaning gutters and roofs - clearing brush from near structures - moving firewood away from structures - removing dead wood - hauling away debris, branches, brush, etc. - rented/purchased a wood chipper, chainsaw, or other power equipiment or tools like loppers, trimmers, or rakes. - hired a tree trimming company - attended an educational session on wildfires If you have any questions, please call (505-470-8450) or email me (rachel3white@gmail.com). Many thanks, Rachel White, Tesuque Valley Firewise Coordinator 23 Big Tesuque Canyon P.S. I am looking into securing some grant funding to rent wood chippers for community use - will keep you all updated!