The Legislature declares it to be the policy of this State to prevent, control and manage wildfires on or threatening the forests or wildlands of New Jersey in order to preserve forests and other natural resources; to enhance the growth and maintenance of forests; to protect recreational, residential, wildlife, plant life, watershed, airshed, and other values; to promote the stability of forest using industries; and to prevent loss of life, bodily injury and damage to property from wildfires and conflagrations.

L.1981, c. 369, s. 2, eff. Dec. 30, 1981.