Biden to visit Santa Fe for briefing on New Mexico wildfires

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — U.S. President Joe Biden will travel to Santa Fe June 11 to receive a briefing on New Mexico wildfires.

The president will meet with New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, state and local officials, first responders, FEMA personnel, and other agencies.

The Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire in northern New Mexico has burned 316,971 acres as of Friday. It is the largest fire in state history and the largest active fire in the county. It is 62% contained.

Both the Calf Canyon Fire and Hermits Peak Fire started as prescribed burns by the U.S. Forest Service in April before combining into a massive inferno.

Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández has asked the U.S. Government Accountability Office to conduct an independent investigation into the causes of the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire.

In May, Biden signed a disaster declaration making federal funding available for New Mexicans in Colfax, Mora, San Miguel, Lincoln and Valencia counties.

During a call in May, Lujan Grisham invited Biden to travel to New Mexico to see firsthand the impact of the wildfires and meet with affected New Mexicans.

For the latest on wildfires statewide, click here.