Controlled Burns Taking Place In Sections Of Manahawkin, Eagleswood

Smell smoke or see smoke on the horizon?

It may just be part of the New Jersey State Forestry Services controlled burning program, which is now underway.

The burns are part of the state’s strategy to reduce wildfire risk and potentially save lives.

“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.”

Controlled burns are being conducted in sections of Eagleswood and Manahawkin, and other parts of Ocean, Cumberland, Burlington and Monmouth counties, according to the state Department of Environmental Protection.

Residents in areas where burns are taking place can expect to see smoke. For more information about New Jersey’s prescribed burning program and where burns are expected to be conducted, contact the State Forestry Services at (609) 292-2977 or “like” the State Forestry Services’ Facebook page: www.facebook.com/newjerseyforests

Weather conditions and other factors play a significant role in determining how much notice can be provided to the public about burns.

When in doubt about the source of the smoke or fire, call 9-1-1 or 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337)

The state Forest Fire Service - part of the DEP’s Forestry Services - plans to burn about 10,000 acres of forests and grasslands this season. These fires consumes brush, leaves, needles and debris, but do not reach the canopy of the forest or cause significant tree loss as wildfires do, according to the DEP.