TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Private Florida forest landowners in several Central Florida counties can apply for a program to help prevent an outbreak of southern pine beetles, known as “the most economically devastating forest pests in the Southeastern United States.”
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service said applications for the 2023 Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program for non-industrial, private forest landowners are open now through June 9.
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“Most of Florida’s forests are privately owned, many by small family landowners,” Simpson said. “This program helps to protect the health of our pine forests – one of our most valuable resources in providing clean air, water, and timber.”
According to Simpson’s office, the last major southern pine beetle outbreak in Florida, between 1999 and 2002, caused an estimated $59 million in timber losses on over 24,000 acres.
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“Southern pine beetle outbreaks have the potential to destroy thousands of acres of pine timber,” said Rick Dolan, Director of the Florida Forest Service. “The most effective way to minimize losses is to prevent infestations through active forest management.”
Landowners in Orange, Seminal, Lake, Sumter, Marion, Volusia and Flagler counties are all eligible to apply for the program.
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To obtain an application or to learn more about the Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program, click here.
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