About Texas A&M Forest Service Longleaf Ridge

Though longleaf pine forest once covered over 90 million acres of the American south, the impacts of modern land use changes and lumber production have reduced and fragmented these forests to less than 4% of their former area, making longleaf pine forests one of the most endangered ecosystems in the country. Longleaf pine ecosystems are dependent on wildfire, as longleaf can effectively resist fire damage; controlled burns are beneficial for clearing the understory of fuel, promoting wildflowers and plant diversity, improving quality of longleaf wood, creating wildlife habitat, and reducing competition with encroaching species. These unique forests are home to hundreds of plant and animal species, including 29 longleaf-dependent species that are federally listed as threatened or endangered, such the red-cockaded woodpecker, Texas trailing phlox, Louisiana pine snake, and gopher tortoise. Texas A&M Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program encourages voluntary protection of environmentally important, privately owned forests that are threatened by fragmentation and conversion to non-forest uses.

Project Description & History 

The Longleaf Ridge Project is a two-phase working forest conservation easement containing one of the last large contiguous tracts of longleaf pine forest in Texas. Phase I was completed in 2014, comprising nearly 4,800 acres in east Texas; Phase II was completed in 2018, protecting 5,438 acres of sustainably managed timberland. These working forests contain historical sites as well as spring-fed creeks, waterfalls, bogs, and other unique habitats for rare plants and animals. In addition to several nearby private conservation easements, the Longleaf Ridge tract helps create a high-quality wildlife corridor connecting the Angelina and Sabine National Forests.

Community Impact

Permanent protection of the Longleaf Ridge tracts enhances habitat for endangered species such as the Red-cockaded woodpecker, a “keystone species” that creates habitat for numerous other species. The tract has thriving populations white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and small game, providing recreational hunting and fishing opportunities via annual leases. Longleaf Ridge Phase II protects riparian corridors and miles of free-flowing tributaries of the Neches and Angelina River Basin, contributing to conservation of six regional watersheds and public water supplies. The tract also protects a scenic viewshed along a state recreation highway, providing opportunities for the public to enjoy Texas longleaf pine forests and their resident wildlife.