If you spot smoke drifting over forested sections of the shore and South Jersey between now and April 1, in most cases, it isn't a worry. It's aimed at preventing massive fire and smoke later this year.

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New Jersey Forest Service crews are conducting prescribed burns today in several counties.

Spots include Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Manalapan; Brendan T. Byrne Forest preserve in Browns Mills; wildlife management areas in Manchester, Eagleswood, and Stafford; and in Cumberland County, wildlife preserves in Commercial, Downe Township, Millville, Buckstutem and Maurice Township.

Dead underbrush that accumulates through the winter is targeted, segregated and ignited to eliminate the most common carrier of sparks that trigger extensive damage and threaten lives.

Operatives tell us that the harsh winter left them with a much smaller window of opportunity up to the typical April deadline. Windy days are off-limits, and action after rainy days can't begin until the foliage is dry enough.

The last wildfire that ravaged tens of thousands of acres in Ocean and Burlington Counties was in May 2006. Evacuations became necessary in several enclaves bordering the Pinelands, and roads were clogged from Toms River to Little Egg Harbor.

We'll keep you updated on where, and when, the burns take place. Meanwhile, if you do spot plumes of smoke and you know that there's nothing planned, call the nearest police department.

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