### Crews Fight Northeast Wildfires Amid Record-Dry Conditions

Teams of firefighters are working around the clock to combat multiple wildfires that have ignited in the Northeast due to an extended period of dry weather. The situation has prompted Fire Weather Warnings and Air Quality Alerts, with tragic consequences, including the death of a first responder from New York.

In New Jersey, firefighters are not only safeguarding homes but also a landmark of historical significance—the Long Pond Ironworks Historic District. The Jennings Creek Wildfire, which began in West Milford, New Jersey, poses a threat to 25 structures, eight of which are within the historic district. This area, dating back to 1766, once produced iron for American forces during major conflicts such as the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

The past two months have seen New Jersey and the broader Northeast region suffering from a combination of drought, dry foliage, and low humidity, which have made wildfires more likely. Although rain recently provided some relief, it was not enough to halt the spread of the fires entirely. Firefighters continue their efforts to contain the 5,000-acre blaze, focusing on protecting the historic Long Pond Ironworks near the New Jersey-New York state line in Hewitt, New Jersey.

Last week, the crisis claimed the life of a New York State Parks employee who was battling the Jennings Creek Wildfire in Greenwood Lake. Despite these hardships, firefighters press on to prevent further damage.

Long Pond Ironworks Historic Site, which includes remnants of a village and furnaces used to produce iron for early American soldiers, has been closed due to the fires. Trails in the area, including all trails on Tranquility Ridge, are also shut down. Additionally, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has announced closures of areas north of Greenwood Lake Turnpike, east of Awosting Road, and all zones within Ringwood State Park to ensure public safety during this ongoing emergency.