LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has extended the application deadline for the Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program and the Southeast Arkansas Hardwood Reforestation Program. Applications for both cost‑share programs will now be accepted through August 28, 2026.

Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program
The Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program assists landowners with thinning overstocked pine stands to reduce the risk of southern pine beetle outbreaks. The southern pine beetle is recognized as the most damaging forest pest in the South, and proactive management remains the most effective method of prevention. Many of these management activities qualify for cost‑share assistance through the program.

A total of $250,000 is available for cost‑share support. Eligible practices include commercial thinning for pulpwood and in‑woods chips, non‑commercial thinning, and prescribed burning. Each landowner is limited to a maximum cost-share of $10,000.

Eligible applicants include non‑industrial private landowners, groups, small corporations, and part‑time forest product manufacturers. Properties must contain at least 10 contiguous acres of pine with a stand‑wide basal area greater than 120 square feet per acre.

Learn more and apply here.

Southeast Arkansas Hardwood Reforestation Program
The Southeast Arkansas Hardwood Reforestation Program provides financial assistance to landowners in Southeast Arkansas experiencing forest health challenges in intensively managed pine plantations. The program aims to support the transition to resilient hardwood forests through targeted reforestation and site preparation practices. A total of $2,000,000 is available in cost‑share assistance.

Assistance may be used for site preparation, hardwood reforestation, and the removal of standing dead pine timber to ensure safe and effective planting. Approved landowners must work with a registered forester to develop a long‑term management plan, which will be reviewed and approved by the Department. Reforestation efforts will be monitored to ensure long‑term success.

Priority consideration will be given to landowners in Ashley, Chicot, Desha, Drew, and Lincoln counties, although applicants outside these counties are also encouraged to apply. Applications from properties within the priority area will be considered immediately, while all other applications will be evaluated after the deadline using a scoring system based on multiple factors.

Learn more and apply here.

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