Problems and Needs for Restorationists of Longleaf Pine Ecosystems: A Survey

Abstract

ABSTRACT: In the southeastern United States, private landowners manage a majority of the forests, and despite their widespread pursuit of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) restoration, little is known about their motivation, the challenges they face, and their expected outcomes. In 2009, in order to increase understanding of how landowners perceive, practice, and afford longleaf pine restoration, we conducted a written survey of managers in nine southeastern states. Motivations for longleaf pine restoration included both profit, as at least 50% of the respondents emphasized longleaf pine's economic value, and non-profit (wildlife habitat, natural heritage, biological diversity) goals. Our results also show that time and effort are not limiting factors, while availability of financial support and the cost of restoration are. Over 80% of respondents relied on some form of financial support for their restoration projects. The vast majority (78%) of restoration practitioners identified single-species dominance ...