N.J. says controlled forest burn was a success

PLEASANTVILLE, N.J. - New Jersey's Forest Fire Service said this season's controlled burns of forests were the most successful the state had had in two decades.

The service met its goal of burning 20,000 acres to remove excess vegetation that wildfires could use as fuel. The burning wrapped up Sunday in central and southern New Jersey. It will continue until April 1 in the northern part of the state.

The goal is the same every year, but it is usually unmet because weather is not right or there isn't enough manpower. Wildfire season began Sunday and will be at its height until mid-May. - AP