Referencing this article – http://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/compass/2016/09/08/reforesting-with-longleaf-pine-after-hurricane-damage/
The only way to prepare for an uncertain future is to develop robust and adaptive systems. Fortunately, such things are available to us. Our land in Virginia sits precisely on the northern and western demarcation line of the traditional longleaf range. We have planted, and will plant more, longleaf to diversify our forests and restore some of the original landscape.
I do not disparage loblolly. It is a wonderful tree that grows fast and has been adapted to forestry in the South. Most of our pine acreage will still be loblolly, but diversity is valuable. That is why we planted longleaf and will also plant shortleaf. I anticipate managing one quarter to one half of our pine land for longleaf by the time I take the road to glory (providing that does not happen too soon.)
The only way to prepare for an uncertain future is to develop robust and adaptive systems. Fortunately, such things are available to us. Our land in Virginia sits precisely on the northern and western demarcation line of the traditional longleaf range. We have planted, and will plant more, longleaf to diversify our forests and restore some of the original landscape.
I do not disparage loblolly. It is a wonderful tree that grows fast and has been adapted to forestry in the South. Most of our pine acreage will still be loblolly, but diversity is valuable. That is why we planted longleaf and will also plant shortleaf. I anticipate managing one quarter to one half of our pine land for longleaf by the time I take the road to glory (providing that does not happen too soon.)