| DRY CONDITIONS EXACERBATE
DROUGHT EMERGENCY (02/67) TRENTON---A continued lack
of rain combined with record low stream flows and overall dry conditions throughout
New Jersey have resulted in the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner
Bradley M. Campbell re-issuing open burning restrictions for all six drought
regions in the state. "The prolonged drought conditions
heighten our concerns about the potential for forest fires," said Campbell.
"As a precautionary measure I am prohibiting open burning statewide to guard
against uncontrollable wildfires." The following exceptions
are not included in the open burning prohibition: outdoor barbecues; permits authorized
for religious ceremonies; agricultural open burning; and campfires under certain
conditions. "We need to continue our efforts to conserve
water and must be aware of the serious risks that fires present to us and our
natural resources," added Campbell. Since the
end of June, most parts of the state have received less than two inches of rain
while reservoir levels continue to decline. All other drought
restrictions remain in place. For more information on the
drought go to www.njdrought.org or call
the drought hotline at 1-800-448-7379. See attached Administrative
Order. [Check the NJ Drought Site for drought related administrative orders.] | 
