Prescribed burns underway in Monmouth, Ocean today
Wardens from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service District B3 check the progress on a March 2013 prescribed burn in the Warren Grove Gunnery Range. Pictured from left: Chad Bozoski, George Jackson III and Steve Pratt. (Photo courtesy of George Gerber III, NJFFS)
It’s that time again.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is conducting prescribed burns in Monmouth and Ocean counties today.
Burns of grassy areas are underway in the Stafford Wildlife Management Area in Eagleswood (50 acres), Manchester Wildlife Management Area in Manchester (50 acres), and Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Manalapan (203 acres), according to the agency.
Large columns of smoke will be visible.
“Prescribed burning is part of a planned strategy that the state uses to reduce accumulations of undergrowth, fallen branches and downed trees that can act as tinder and increase the severity of wildfires, making them difficult to control,” said State Forester Lynn Fleming. “Prescribed burns help protect lives and property and, at the same time, improve the overall health of our forests.”
With sandy soil that drains rapidly, the New Jersey Pinelands region is highly susceptible to wildfires.
When in doubt about the source of the smoke or fire, call 9-1-1 or 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337), the NJDEP advises.
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