SOCORRO, N.M. – With students moved out after the completion of the spring semester, New Mexico Tech is providing dormitory rooms for firefighters to rest and recharge for their efforts to suppress the Bear Trap Canyon wildfire in the San Mateo Mountains in southwestern Socorro County. About 60 to 70 firefighters are spending their days sleeping in Torres Residential Hall after spending their nights fighting the wildfire, which began May 1, 2022, and has grown to more than 17,000 acres, according to the New Mexico Fire Information website.

Brad Dischon, supervisor of a crew that traveled from Salem, Oregon, said he doesn’t know how long firefighters will need to stay in New Mexico to fight the Bear Trap Canyon wildfire. Dischon said he appreciates New Mexico Tech’s contribution to the success of their efforts, helping his crew get the proper rest so they can be effective in their efforts fighting the wildfire on the night shift.

“It makes a big difference,” Dischon said of the clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned dorm rooms on the New Mexico Tech campus. “It helps keep us fresh for when we’re on the line.”

Dr. David L. Greene, Ed.D., New Mexico Tech’s Vice President for Student Life and Chief Diversity Officer, said the University is able to provide needed space on its campus for the firefighters who have traveled from across the country to Socorro County to fight the wildfire.

“The wildfires in New Mexico have impacted many of our students, faculty, staff, and their families,” he said. “We are happy to have the opportunity to provide space needed during this time.”