Smoke From Wood Chip Pile Prompts New Firefighting Efforts In Wilmington

WILMINGTON — The Wilmington Fire Department is preparing to launch a new operation to extinguish a persistent wood chip fire at 333 Andover St. that has been causing smoke in surrounding neighborhoods for months.

Fire Chief William F. Cavanaugh III said in a statement that the department has been monitoring a smoldering pile of natural wood chips since being notified in mid-December.

Depending on wind speed, direction and temperature, smoke has affected residents on Ashwood Avenue, Fiorenza Drive, Hensey Way, Andover Street, and nearby roads.

The department was first called to the property in September after a reported fire. Crews extinguished visible flames in a tree line and a log pile. In the weeks that followed, firefighters returned multiple times to address smaller flare-ups.

Thermal imaging later revealed pockets of heat moving through the wood chip pile, prompting a long-term response. Crews used heavy equipment and a hydrant, turning over the material and applying water.

Cavanaugh said more than 3.5 million gallons of water were used and more than 5,000 personnel hours were spent on the effort.

Although the fire was believed to be extinguished, smoke reappeared in December. The department said mulch fires are difficult to fully eliminate.

Air monitoring has not detected elevated levels of oxygen deficiency, hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, or explosive gases.

The town is working with the property owners through their attorney. Fire officials expect to bring equipment back to the site by mid- to late next week, using the hydrant on Andover Street for what the chief described as a consistent and aggressive push to eliminate the smoke and prevent reignition.