Trenton, NJ – The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is conducting prescribed burns across multiple counties today, March 14, as part of ongoing wildfire prevention efforts. The scheduled burns will take place in Atlantic, Cumberland, Ocean, Passaic, Sussex, and Monmouth counties. Residents may notice smoke in affected areas.
According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, prescribed fires are a critical tool for reducing forest fuel buildup, which can contribute to larger, uncontrolled wildfires. These controlled burns also improve wildlife habitats, recycle nutrients into the soil, and help reduce harmful insects and ticks.
The prescribed burns are planned for the following locations:
- Atlantic County: Hamilton Twp. – Municipal Property
- Cumberland County: Commercial, Downe, and Lawrence Twps. – Millville Wildlife Management Area
- Ocean County: Beachwood Borough (County Property), Berkeley and Lacey Twps. (Double Trouble State Park), Jackson Twp. (Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area)
- Passaic County: Ringwood Borough – Ringwood State Park
- Sussex County: Andover Twp. (Kittatinny Valley State Park & other state property), Fredon Twp. (Whittingham Wildlife Management Area)
- Monmouth County: Upper Freehold Twp. – Pleasant Run Wildlife Management Area
The Forest Fire Service advises that all prescribed burns are weather-dependent and subject to change. If residents notice smoke or fire and are unsure of its source, they should call 9-1-1 or 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337).
Prescribed fires typically take place between February and early April, allowing experts to manage fire intensity, timing, and location to prevent larger, uncontrolled wildfires. More information on the prescribed fire program is available at New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
