Florida Program Helps Landowners Combat Southern Pine Beetle Threat

Across the Southeast, the southern pine beetle continues to threaten one of our most valuable natural resources, our pine forests. And in Florida, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is taking action.

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson says, “These pine forests are one of Florida’s most valuable commodities, economically and environmentally.” That is why applications are now open through November 14 for the 2025 Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program, available to non-industrial, private forest landowners in 44 northern Florida counties.

The program provides financial assistance for thinning dense pine stands, conducting prescribed burns, or planting more beetle-resistant trees such as longleaf or slash pine. Supported by the U.S. Forest Service, it helps reduce the risk of devastating beetle outbreaks.

Since 2005, this initiative has helped protect more than 220,000 acres of forestland, and this year reimbursement rates have been increased to reflect rising costs.

For more details and application links, visit FDACS.gov/SPBPrevention.