The Arkansas Department of Agriculture launched the Hardwood Reforestation Program to support landowners in Southeast Arkansas facing forest health challenges in intensively managed pine plantations. This funding is provided by the U.S. Forest Service award agreement 25-DG-11083105-531.
The 2026 deadline for applications is August 14th. Please submit this application to [email protected]:
Why the Program is Needed
In recent years, pine stands in Southeast Arkansas have experienced a decline in forest health. The primary issue is brown spot needle blight (Lecanosticta acicola), a fungus that causes brown discoloration on pine needles one to two times per year. This damage has led many landowners to reconsider replanting pine after harvest.
Loblolly pine infected with brown spot needle blight showing characteristic brown discoloration.
The program addresses these concerns by providing cost-share assistance for:
- Site preparation and reforestation with hardwood species.
- Removal of standing dead pine timber to allow safe and effective reforestation practices.
Program Requirements
Participants must:
- Eligible properties must be currently or recently forested with pine.
- Submit a completed application before the 2026 deadline, August 14. The Department can provide assistance to facilitate application completion (contact Alexsis Mondragon, 870-331-0888)
- Develop a long-term management plan with a Registered Forester within 3 months after approval.
- Receive approval of the management plan from the Department.
- Allow Department staff to monitor reforestation efforts for success.
Applications received during the application period will be considered immediately for approval if the property resides in the target area. All other applications will be ranked after the deadline using a scoring system that considers several factors.
Funding and Priority Areas
Landowners in Ashley, Chicot, Desha, Drew, and Lincoln counties will receive priority consideration. Landowners outside of the target area are also eligible to apply.
Example Cost-Share Scenario
Below is an example of cost-share support for reforesting a recent 40-acre clearcut:
| Practice | Area | Cost Share Rate Per Unit | Cost Share to Landowner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Ripping Site Prep | 40 | $131.19 | $5,247.60 |
| Bandspraying Site Prep | 40 | $31.66 | $1,266.40 |
| Plant Bareroot Seedlings | 40 | $205.70 | $8,228.00 |
| Total | $14,742.00 |
Payments will be reimbursed after the approved practices are completed and inspected by a Forester with the Department.
Each landowner is limited to $100,000 in cost share payments per state fiscal year.