Firefighters continue making progress in Jennings Creek Wildfire
NEW JERSEY (PIX11) -- As of Friday, the Jennings Creek Wildfire is approximately 90% contained on the New Jersey side and about 65% contained on the New York side.
“We have a really solid containment on our side,” said Chris Franek of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. “Crews will be going to patrol and monitor status.”
In New York, fighting the fire has proved more challenging, with fewer roadways among the rugged terrain for crews to access the fire.
Two firefighters from Colorado and 20 from Montana are on the ground assisting in New York.
“All summer long, New York was actually sending crews out and helping to staff Montana fire engines during their peak season,” said Bob Rogers, a New York state park ranger. “So when we started needing, we put the request in and happily, Montana was able to reciprocate.”
New York was able to burn hundreds of acres Thursday, bringing the fire under control. Crews are now working to establish the remaining containment lines.
The smell of smoke is expected to linger for some time.
“Until we get either a massive snowstorm or a significant rain event, we will be smelling smoke and seeing the effects of the wildfire,” said Franek.