The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has begun its annual prescribed burn season, with crews conducting controlled burns today in the area of Wells Mills County Park in Ocean County.

The prescribed burns are conducted to reduce the amount of dry leaves, brush and other vegetation that can fuel wildfires, helping protect communities and forestland.

Today’s burns are taking place in the area of the Jones Road Wildfire, which began on April 22nd, 2025, and burned approximately 15,300 acres in Ocean County. The fire destroyed buildings and other property and forced thousands of residents to evacuate.

Investigators determined that the fire was caused by an improperly extinguished bonfire involving burning wooden pallets. Joseph Kling, 19, of Waretown, and a 17-year-old juvenile were charged in connection with the blaze.

Prescribed burns are conducted under controlled conditions to reduce the buildup of combustible materials and help limit the spread and intensity of future wildfires.

New Jersey’s prescribed burn season runs from October 1st through March 31st, with operations dependent on weather and fuel conditions.