The resolution urges the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the Pinelands Commission, and the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council to adopt alternative forest management practices during drought conditions when prescribed burning is deemed unsafe. Forest lands, which cover 40% of New Jersey, play a vital role in the state's environmental, social, and economic health by providing clean air and water, supporting biodiversity, and offering recreational opportunities. However, climate change has led to unpredictable weather patterns, resulting in extended droughts and an increased risk of wildfires, as evidenced by the 1,380 wildfires that occurred in 2024, burning over 10,000 acres.

Given the challenges posed by drought, the resolution emphasizes the need for alternative management strategies, such as ecological thinning, to maintain forest health and mitigate wildfire risks when prescribed burning is not feasible. The resolution highlights the importance of proper forest management to ensure the continued benefits of these lands for New Jersey residents and calls for action from relevant state agencies to implement these practices during periods of drought.