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    • Brush fire extinguished at Drew Forest, cause under investigation
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    Brush fire extinguished at Drew Forest, cause under investigation

    Online Niel Posted on

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    A large brush fire at a forest preserve on the campus of Drew University in Madison was brought under control by 1 p.m. Saturday, the district reported, adding that all personnel had been removed from the scene.

    The New Jersey Forest Fire Service detected a potential fire at their Greystone Lookout Tower in Denville just before 10 a.m. The Forest Service responded, along with the Madison Fire Department and the Madison Police Department, to contain the fire.

    “Due to the quick and coordinated response of all agencies involved, the fire was successfully contained to one and a half acres of forest,” district officials wrote in a statement. “As of 1:00 p.m., the New Jersey Forestry Fire Service declared the fire under control, with containment lines well established and crews diligently addressing remaining hot spots to prevent further spread.”

    No injuries were reported, officials said, adding that an investigation is underway to determine the cause. Authorities asked the public to avoid the area near Loantake Way and the preserve, called Drew Forest Preserve, while they worked at the scene, which was cleared by 3:30 p.m.

    Drew Forest Reserve is a 51-acre area known for its environmental diversity. University is under discussion with the borough of Madison to sell the property. The fire was contained to the forest floor, “preventing it from reaching the tree canopy and preserving the critical ecological features of the Drew Forest,” according to the release.

    “The quick action and teamwork shown by our local fire, police and state fire departments was outstanding,” said Madison Mayor Robert Conley. “Their commitment to protecting our community and conserving Drew Forest is deeply appreciated. We are incredibly fortunate that their expertise prevented the fire from spreading.”

    The lack of rain has northern and central New Jersey on “extreme” wildfire alert, while southern New Jersey is on “very high” alert, according to the data. service website.

    More: When will it rain again in New Jersey? State sets new marks for consecutive dry days

    The New Jersey Forest Fire Service announced that a stage three campfire restriction is in effect in all 21 counties, meaning all fires in wooded areas will be prohibited unless are contained in an elevated stove using only propane, natural gas, gas or electricity.

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