Smoky conditions are being reported in parts of northern Ocean County and southern Monmouth County due to prescribed burns conducted by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. The controlled burns are being conducted at several sites in the county, including in Jackson, Manchester, and Wells Mills Park in Waretown. The burns are used to reduce leaves, branches, and other forest debris that can contribute to wildfire spread. The fires also help reduce the presence of damaging insects and ticks and recycle nutrients into the soil.