William B. Bankhead National Forest: Longleaf Pine Restoration

Forest Overview
180,581 acres | Located in northwest Alabama near Montgomery

The William B. Bankhead National Forest encompasses pine-clad and hardwood forests and deep canyons and gorges. Stands of giant, ancient trees include the yellow pine, eastern hemlock and cucumber magnolia support abundant wildlife. The forest is home to the Sipsey Wilderness, sometimes called the “Land of a Thousand Waterfalls,” and the Sipsey Fork, Alabama’s only National Wild And Scenic River, which is a favorite canoeing stream.

 

 

Need for Trees

During the past decade, the Bankhead National Forest has experienced southern pine beetle infestations at epidemic levels. An estimated 22,000 acres of pine forest have been killed by this epidemic. All areas to be planted were originally loblolly pine or pine/ hardwood stands, and they will be restored to the native species of longleaf pine and shortleaf pine.

Planting and Impact

This project will plant longleaf pine on 72 acres to restore longleaf woodland native community types and the associated understory vegetation.

These trees will provide future wildlife habitat, improve watershed quality and soil stabilization, and add beauty for visitors to enjoy.

About the Pledge