Florida non-industrial private forest landowners are being reminded the Florida Forest Service is still accepting applications for the Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program.
Since January of this year, southern pine beetle infestations have been detected in Alachua, Bradford, Clay and Putnam counties. The last major outbreaks in Florida occurred from 1999 to 2002, resulting in an estimated $59 million in timber losses.
The Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program provides incentive payments for non-industrial private forest landowners who conduct a first pulpwood thinning. The program also offers partial cost reimbursement for activities such as prescribed burning, mechanical underbrush treatments and the planting of longleaf or slash pine.
The program is available in 44 northern Florida counties and is supported through a grant from the USDA Forest Service. Applications for the program will be accepted through July 30.
To obtain an application or to learn more about the Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program, visit FreshFromFlorida.com/SouthernPineBeetle/Prevention.