HOPEWELL TWP., N.J. — The Pole Farm and Reed Bryan sections of Mercer Meadows were closed Friday, March 4 for a prescribed burn.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has determined that the weather conditions on Friday, March 4 were safe and suitable for prescribed burning. Rosedale Park had remained opened. For your safety, please observe all posted closure signs for future burns. Notice of the reopening of parks will be posted on the Park Commission website and social media.
The fire was lit, monitored and managed by the Forest Fire Service officials who had undergone rigorous training and are experienced in conducting safe and effective prescribed burns. All appropriate safety measures and precautions were taken by those performing the burn, including having a contingency plan. While the burn was in progress and until the Section Warden deemed the fire out, there were law enforcement and fire personnel, equipment and vehicles present at the Pole Farm and surrounding areas. Specific conditions were met in order to burn, including temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed and direction.
Forest Fire Service officials and Mercer County Park Commission staff were onsite and actively monitored the burn site until it was determined the park is safe to reopen to the public Sunday, March 5. Local police and fire departments were made aware of the activities.
In the days following the prescribed burn, it is normal to see smoldering and smoking logs and debris. If you believe fire is a threat, call 1-877-WARNDEP. Once reopened, park users are encouraged to please stay on the trails.