Ocean County Fire: Wildfire burns more than 300 acres in Jackson Township

JACKSON TOWNSHIP, New Jersey (WABC) — Firefighters have made some progress battling a wildfire in Jackson Township in Ocean County, New Jersey, but the lack of rain this fall has proven to be a challenge.

Some evictions from homes took place, but those residents were allowed back on Thursday morning.

The New Jersey Forest Service is working overtime this fall, stretching lines, digging trenches and using whatever force it can to contain the fire.

The Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area fire, dubbed the Shotgun Fire, has burned about 300 acres and has been burning since Wednesday afternoon.

At one point, 25 structures were threatened. This area has a combination of homes and extensive farms with animals.

Six homes on Stump Tavern Road were evacuated.

Residents are allowed to return home, but are still on edge. Others are concerned because the smoke is thick and there is ash everywhere, but they had little warning.

As for conditions, this could be the worst fire season on record because it has been so dry.

The lack of rain, falling leaves, stressed trees and gusty winds are all elements that make this fire and others so challenging.

The fire is 40% under control.

The cause is being investigated. But in most cases, these fires are caused by human behavior, such as throwing a cigarette butt or sparks from a lawn mower.

In the meantime, the firefighters are also busy fighting another major wildfire in Burlington County.

That fire is burning in Evesham Township in the area of ​​Kettle Run Road and Sycamore Ave. Evesham Police say Kettle Run Road is closed between Braddock Mill Road and Hopewell Road.

There was no immediate word on the extent of the fire or whether any homes were threatened.

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