Controlled burning will generate smoke columns today at the Jersey Shore

     Smoke from yesterday's forest fire in Manchester. (Image: JSHN contributor Mike Logger)

    Smoke from yesterday's forest fire in Manchester. (Image: JSHN contributor Mike Logger)

    More smoke will be visible today at the Jersey Shore as firefighters conduct two prescribed burns.

    New Jersey Forest Fire Service crews will be burning at the Warren Grove Bombing Range located to the west of the Garden State Parkway in Burlington County. 

    The service says a large smoke column will be visible through the day.

    Further north near the border of Ocean and Monmouth counties, crews will be conducting burns near Six Flags Great Adventure. 

    • WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

    According to the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service, the prescribed burning program reduces wildfire risks by burning buildup of undergrowth, fallen trees and branches, leaves and other debris on forest floors. 

    “Prescribed burning is an important tool in keeping our forests and other wildlands safe and healthy,” said Bill Edwards, Chief of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. “These burns are conducted only under exacting conditions by highly trained personnel. By burning them away now, we can reduce the risk of these materials serving as tinder for wildfires later in the year. This practice also improves the overall ecological health of our forests and grasslands.”

    Since late last week, northern Jersey Shore residents have been reporting a smoky haze. That was due to controlled burns on Friday and Saturday.

    More smoke was reported yesterday amid a major forest fire in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area in Manchester. The fire, which was mostly contained last night at 570 acres, was extinguished this morning. 

    No structures were damaged. 

    When in doubt about the source of the smoke or fire, the state Department of Environmental Protection advises calling 9-1-1 or 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337).

    WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

    Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

    Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal