| LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture (Department) is opening enrollment for a new cost-share program aimed at helping landowners in Southeast Arkansas address forest health issues in intensively managed pine plantations. Applications will be accepted until November 21, 2025. |
| In recent years, many pine plantations in this region have experienced a decline in forest health due to brown spot needle blight. The fungus causes distinctive brown discoloration on pine trees, which may deter landowners from replanting pine after harvest. |
| The new program provides financial assistance to landowners for site preparation and reforestation of hardwood species, as well as removal of standing dead pine timber to safely implement reforestation practices. Eligible properties include those currently forested with pine or recently harvested pine lands. |
| Participation in the program requires landowners to develop a long-term management plan with a registered forester. Plans must be approved by the Department, and reforestation efforts will be monitored to ensure long-term success. |
| Applications will be ranked based on several criteria. Landowners in Ashley, Chicot, Desha, Drew, and Lincoln counties will be given priority. Property owners outside the target area are also eligible to apply. A total of $2.2 million in cost-share funding is available.More information and the application can be found on the Department’s website here. |
