Crews battle woodlands fire in south N.J.

State Forest Fire Service crews are working to contain a forest fire in the Bevans Wildlife Management Area in southern New Jersey.

The fire began shortly before 3 p.m. Wednesday. Fueled by strong winds, it is estimated to consume at least 1,500 acres.

Environmental Protection Department spokesman Larry Hanja tells The Press of Atlantic City the fire was 55 percent contained as of 8 a.m. Thursday and is expected to burn itself out.

The fire has not threatened any homes and no injuries have been reported.

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Firefighters say the fire apparently began on the north side of Ackley Road in Downe Township and eventually crossed to the south side.

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