CHATSWORTH, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — New Jersey environmental officials held a ceremony on Thursday to thank firefighters for their hard work and residents for their hospitality during a record-setting wildfire season.
There were 14 major wildfires this year, each burning more than 100 acres. State Parks and Forests Assistant Commissioner John Cecil says a normal year sees about five, so his team was extremely busy as there were also many other smaller fires.
"This year, the Garden State has experienced 1,032 wildfires which burned 18,039 acres," reported Cecil. At the ceremony at Coyle Field in Chatsworth, he expressed his gratitude to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service for handling every hurdle that came their way in grueling conditions.
Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette says the changing climate is showing no signs of slowing down, and he's expecting next year to be similar. An additional $3 million in state funding next year is slated to help purchase new equipment and hire more staff in preparation.
"Our risks are increasing," LaTourette said. "New Jersey is ground zero for the worst impacts of climate change, and it comes in all sorts of ways."
Despite all the fires, LaTourette says not a single life was lost and no homes were destroyed. He says that's a testament to the work of New Jersey firefighters.
"That's why we need you all more than we ever have and why I'm so deeply grateful for the way you dedicate yourselves to this work," he said.
