The resolution urges Congress to pass the Fix Our Forests Act, highlighting the critical role of New Jersey's forests, which cover 40% of the state and provide habitat for diverse species. With an average of 1,500 wildfires damaging approximately 7,000 acres of forest each year, the resolution emphasizes the threats these fires pose not only to wildlife and natural habitats but also to homes, businesses, and the health of residents living near forested areas. The increasing frequency of hot, dry, and windy days exacerbates the wildfire risk, making it essential for New Jersey, the most densely populated state in the nation, to take proactive measures.
The Fix Our Forests Act aims to establish an interagency Fireshed Center that would utilize data to assess and predict wildfire risks, thereby informing land management and fire response strategies. The resolution outlines various forest fire management techniques, such as prescribed burns and tree thinning, that could help mitigate wildfire risks. Additionally, the Act would streamline environmental reviews for forest management practices, limit litigation related to fire management projects, and promote strategies to enhance forest resilience and health. By passing this legislation, New Jersey seeks to reduce wildfire risks and improve the overall health of its forests.