In a recent letter addressed to N.J. Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette, state Sen. Carmen Amato Jr. (R-9th Dist.) requested a public information session on state forest fire preparedness. “As a state senator whose legislative district includes a considerable portion of the Pine Barrens, I am respectfully requesting that the department schedule an immediate public briefing for local and state officials,” notes the correspondence, written as well on behalf of…