Wildfire Grows To 1.2K Acres, Progress On Containment In South Jersey

SOUTH JERSEY — The Dragway Wildfire doubled in size from the morning, reaching 1,200 acres as of 4 p.m. Monday. But 40 percent of the fire has been contained, according to state officials.

Crews have been "making progress" since the fire was first reported early Sunday evening, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service said. The blaze has been burning around Jackson Road and the shuttered Atco Dragway in Waterford Township, but the containment area expanded into Medford and Shamong in Burlington County.

Jackson Road will remain closed until further notice between Tremont Avenue and Atison Road in Waterford. Camden County officials urged drivers to find alternate routes.

"At this time, the department of public safety are standing at the ready to support the state with any needs they have while they fight this wildfire in Waterford," County Commissioner Jonathan Young said late Monday afternoon.

The fire reached 200 acres Sunday night and grew to 600 acres as of 10 a.m. Monday, with 10 percent contained at that time in the Wharton State Forest. The containment area expanded into parts of Medford and Shamong in Burlington County.

The Dragway Fire — near the former Atco Dragway/Jackson Road in Waterford Township — was first reported around 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Fire officials around the Garden State have warned residents of the increased potential for forest fires in 2023, as the lack of snow in South Jersey this winter has prevented pine needles and leaves from compacting. The result: this "ground fuel" may rapidly dry out on breezy or windy days that are at high risk for wildfire.

While 99 percent of wildfires in the state are attributed to human carelessness, accidents or arson, the riskier peak wildfire season may actually be extended due to changing climate patterns, state officials said.

“The continuing impacts of climate change mean our state is experiencing more severe weather conditions, storms, wind and drought that can result in a longer wildfire season, which is why it is more important than ever that the public exercise caution and take steps to help protect their homes and property,” New Jersey Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette previously said in a statement. “Preventing wildfires also helps avoid catastrophic releases of carbon that contribute to and exacerbate climate change.”

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service recommends the following to reduce the risk of wildfires:

• Don’t discard matches, cigarettes or smoking materials on the ground
• Obtain a campfire permit from the Forest Fire Service office
• Don’t leave fires unattended, and douse them completely to put them out
• Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children
• Ensure fire trucks can access driveways
• Report suspicious vehicles and individuals
• Use wood stoves and fireplaces carefully; fully douse ashes with water before disposal