Wildland fire crew waits to receive orders to battle Little Bear fire

KOB 4 On Your Side first reported about New Mexico wildland firefighters having to sit on the sidelines while crews from as far away as Idaho were being called in. There is some information about the Little Bear fire that seems contradictory, but our story is already making a difference. Wildland firefighter Dion Reynolds lives just a few miles away from the Ruidoso fire. He and his crew are certified and have been ready to battle the blaze since the first plume of smoke last week. But they have not been called into action. Reynolds said he has been working to get answers for days as to why a crew with federal contracting certifications has been passed up. He said no one has been listening, until 4 On Your Side started asking questions. The incident commander said he was at a loss as to why they the wild land firefighters were not dispatched to the fire. He took down their information and told the crew he would see what he could do. Meanwhile, 4 On Your Side is receiving reports that other certified local crews in similar situations have been in Ruidoso waiting for orders – those orders have yet to come. But those firefighters did not want to go on camera because of possible retaliation. KOB 4