In 2022, FOREST provided funding support for the US Forest Service's Pitch Pine Regeneration Study, in coordination with the Central Pine Barrens Commission and the University of Vermont.
Project regarding research on regeneration of native pitch pine in pine and pine-oak ecosystems in Long Island's Central Pine Barrens following significant infestation and damage by the southern pine beetle and after initial southern pine beetle suppression and management techniques had been employed.
The project is examining various management techniques involving mechanical manipulation, prescribed fire, seeding, and planting to develop best practices guidance that will greatly benefit the various agencies both on Long Island and in the Northeast which are involved with responding to and managing southern pine beetle infestations. This guidance will help enhance recovery of the impacted ecological communities as well as overall forest health and resiliency.
