State strengthens emergency fire communications at Nambe Lake
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Lauren Dodd Thorp | 505-231-3667
August 20, 2026
NAMBE PUEBLO, N.M. — Radio technicians reinforced communication for firefighters and tribal personnel at Nambe Lake this week as the Frijoles Fire continues to grow.
The New Mexico Department of Information Technology (DoIT) deployed a Cell on Wheels (COW) unit after Nambe Pueblo requested the backup support. DoIT’s Public Safety Radio team worked tirelessly in midday heat to position and activate the mobile communications tower. The COW now serves as a temporary boost to radio and data connectivity for Nambe responders.
“Reliable communication saves lives during emergencies, and our department remains ready to reinforce that infrastructure at a moment’s notice,” said Manny Barreras, DoIT cabinet secretary and state CIO. “I’m grateful to our Public Safety Radio team for their professionalism and for the strong collaboration with Nambe Pueblo and our state partners.”
DoIT routinely supports state, tribal, county and federal partners during emergency operations by supplying backup radio infrastructure and temporary communication coverage. The Nambe deployment reflects ongoing collaboration across agencies as fire crews adjust to evolving conditions in the area.
“Resources and access to communications can sometimes be limited in rural areas of our state including many Nations, Pueblos and Tribes. During emergencies, like the Frijoles Fire, reliable communication is critical for all communities and our emergency management teams. We are grateful that the Department of Information Technology’s public safety radio team is deploying cells on wheels in and around the Pueblo of Nambé to strengthen emergency communications for the entire area. These collaborative efforts between the state and tribes demonstrate to a commitment to partnership and are critical to ensuring a safer and stronger New Mexico.” said Secretary Josett D. Monette, New Mexico Indian Affairs Department.
“Deploying this unit ensures firefighters and tribal personnel have uninterrupted communication as conditions change on the ground,” said Michael Rohrbacher, DoIT’s director of public safety communications. “Our team is committed to showing up wherever we’re needed, and we’re proud to support Nambe Pueblo and the crews responding to this fire.”
DoIT stands ready to deploy additional communication resources if needed.