Longleaf pine ecosystems were historically 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 percent of its original extent.

NRI is working with America’s Longleaf Restoration Initiative (ALRI) to restore these legacy forests – a coalition of federal and state agencies, non-profit organizations, the forest industry, private landowners, and other stakeholders. The initiative aims to restore healthy and viable longleaf pine forests to the landscape, along with this vital ecosystem's full spectrum of cultural, ecological, economic, and social benefits.  

Protecting and restoring longleaf pine forests will provide valuable habitats 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.