State environmental officials will gather in Jackson to dedicate New Jersey’s first newly constructed wildfire observation tower in nearly eight decades and demonstrate controlled burning techniques aimed at reducing wildfire risk.

The 133-foot Veterans Fire Tower, which replaces the longtime fire lookout tower that was dismantled in Lakewood in 2024, is the first addition to the state’s fire tower system in 78 years, expanding a network that now includes 21 towers used to detect and track wildfires across New Jersey.

As earlier reported, the new tower is anticipated to provide a modern observation point for spotting wildfires and enhancing early detection capabilities across Ocean County woodlands and surrounding areas. Construction at the East Veterans location has been underway through 2025, with the new structure designed to continue the essential role once filled by the Lakewood station.

Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection will lead the event at the state Forest Service Nursery, where officials say the new structure represents a significant investment in wildfire monitoring and response infrastructure.

The event will also feature a prescribed fire demonstration conducted by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, giving attendees a rare opportunity to observe controlled burning operations. Prescribed fires are a key tool in reducing forest fuel loads and lowering the risk of large, uncontrolled wildfires.

Peak wildfire season in New Jersey typically runs from mid-March through mid-May, making early spring a critical time for both prevention and public awareness efforts.

Following remarks by Potosnak, State Firewarden and Forest Fire Service Chief Bill Donnelly will discuss the strategic importance of the new tower, while Assistant Commissioner John Cecil will outline how prescribed burns help protect lives, property and natural resources.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will follow the presentations, after which officials will conduct the live prescribed burn demonstration.