Big Rusty sculpture safe as 2 latest N.J. wildfires now 50% contained

A pair of wildfires that ignited in New Jersey on Monday are now each 50% contained and the “Big Rusty” metal sculpture in Burlington County has been spared from nearby flames.
The fire in Hainesport, Burlington County remains 40 acres on Tuesday morning, but has improved from 20% contained to 50%.
Bancroft Lane, Cove Court and Wharton Place have reopened.
The fire in the area of Pine Park and the Lakewood Country Club in Lakewood grew slightly overnight to 35 acres, the state forest fire service said. On Monday evening, it was 33 acres and 20% contained.
No homes or other structures are threatened by either fire.
Clearstream Road in Lakewood remains closed between Brewers Bridge and Hope Chapel Road, officials said Tuesday.
Fire engines remain at the scene of both fires.
Firefighting efforts should get a boost on Wednesday night and Thursday when rain in the drought-stricken state is expected.
All of New Jersey is under either severe or extreme drought conditions.
The fires that broke out earlier this month are either mostly or fully contained but still being monitored.
The largest scorched nearly 5,000 acres in West Milford, Passaic County and Orange County, New York.
Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
Jeff Goldman may be reached at [email protected].