Vineland, N.J. – The 1,327-acre wildfire that scorched parts of the Peaslee Wildlife Management Area in Cumberland County is fully contained, but residents should expect lingering smoke and possible tree hazards until significant rain arrives.
According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, the blaze—first detected from the Belleplain Fire Tower on April 18—was declared 100% contained by 11 a.m. on Tuesday. No structures were damaged or threatened, and no evacuations were ordered during the fire’s nearly month-long activity.
Although containment is complete, fire officials caution that smoke will continue to drift in the area, especially under dry conditions. Trees weakened by the fire may also pose a falling risk to hikers and drivers near the Peaslee WMA. The fire’s cause remains under investigation.
Crews will remain on-site to reinforce containment lines and monitor for any flare-ups. Drone use remains prohibited in all fire zones to protect airspace safety and emergency response operations.
This marks the final official update unless significant new developments arise. Residents are advised to avoid the burn zone and monitor for air quality alerts in the coming days.
