Bucco Offers Support as State and Local Officials Respond to West Milford Wildfire

Senator Anthony M. Bucco said he’s working with State and local officials to monitor a wildfire that has spread to 250 acres along a section of Route 23 in West Milford.

“I spoke with Mayor Dale, the State Fire Marshal, and officials at NJDOT this morning to ensure that there are effective lines of communication between State and local officials as the wildfire continues to burn in West Milford,” said Bucco (R-25). “Thanks to the diligent efforts of firefighters, I’m glad to report that progress is being made in containing the fire. As a result of those efforts, NJDOT has reopened Route 23 in the area. We’ll continue to monitor the situation and offer any assistance we can until this is fully resolved.”

The “Kanouse Wildfire” started Wednesday afternoon off Route 23 and Echo Lake Rd. and is approximately 30% contained, with zero structures threatened, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.

West Milford Mayor Michele Dale thanked the first responders for their efforts and Senator Bucco and Assemblywoman Aura Dunn for offering their support.

“I want to thank the New Jersey Forest Fire Service and our local first responders who are working to keep our community safe,” said Mayor Dale. “I also want to thank Senator Bucco and Assemblywoman Dunn for working with us to ensure that we have everything we need and for his help coordinating with the various State agencies that are involved. It’s a real team effort across all levels of government right now to ensure that the people of West Milford remain safe until the last flame is extinguished.”