Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program
The Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program funds science-based forest management to reduce beetle outbreaks in Florida, led by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Funder: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Due Dates: October 9, 2026
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000 per landowner per year; cost-share rates vary by practice (e.g., $100/acre for thinning, $15/acre for burning, etc.)
Summary: Supports Florida non-industrial private forest landowners in preventing southern pine beetle outbreaks through cost-sharing for approved forest management practices.
Key Information: Only one application per landowner per year; eligible counties and acreage requirements apply.
Description
The Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program, administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) through the Florida Forest Service, provides cost-share and incentive payments to non-industrial private forest landowners. The program aims to reduce the risk and impact of southern pine beetle outbreaks by supporting eligible landowners in implementing forest management practices such as thinning, prescribed burning, mechanical underbrush treatment, and planting less-susceptible pine species. By promoting these practices, the program helps minimize timber losses and protect Florida's pine forests from this destructive pest.
