Longleaf Pine restoration

Historically, longleaf pine ecosystems were the dominant forest type across the Southeast United States. Fire suppression and changes in land use have now reduced longleaf acreage to less than 5 precent of its original extent.

To restore these legacy forests, Texas A&M NRI is working with the America’s Longleaf Restoration Initiative – a coalition of federal and state agencies, non-profit organizations, forest industry, private landowners, and other stakeholders. The initiative’s objective is to restore healthy and viable longleaf pine forests to the landscape, along with the full spectrum of cultural, ecological, economic and social benefits produced by this important ecosystem.  

Protection and restoration of longleaf pine forests will provide valuable habitat for wildlife; clean air and water for communities; economic opportunities for landowners through timber harvest; and stronger military readiness through compatible land uses near military test and training facilities.   

NRI understands the unique relationship between natural resources and national defense and has taken an active leadership role in the restoration initiative since its inception in 2007 by providing project management and outreach expertise, geospatial analyses, and policy development support.