Senator Michael Testa has addressed a letter to Governor Phil Murphy and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette. The letter requests an update on the resources available for forestry management and fire-fighting services in the state, with a focus on their adequacy to prevent and combat forest fires.
The letter highlights concerns about annual funding requests made by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). According to Senator Testa, “For the past several years, they have requested $2,000,000 for equipment needed to clear forested areas of brush, which not only allows access to forests for users but also establishes fire breaks to prevent the spread of fires. They have also requested $1 million annually to repair fire towers.” These requests reportedly receive lower priority compared to other discretionary spending totaling $20 million that is unrelated to life and property protection.
Testa pointed out that it remains unclear if these capital needs are being met. He noted that recent budgets do not reflect these specific funding requests nor do separate appropriations for open space management include them.
In addition, Senator Testa plans to introduce legislation aimed at ensuring emergency management departments are fully equipped and ready to coordinate efforts against forest fires.
Further details from his correspondence can be accessed online.
