Kisatchie National Forest
Planting in this forest.
In August 2020, Hurricane Laura caused catastrophic damage to Kisatchie National Forest, destroying thousands of acres of longleaf pine trees and critical habitats. Among the most impacted species was the endangered Red-Cockaded Woodpecker, which relies on mature trees between 80 - 100 years old for nesting and roosting, many of which were lost in the storm. To help kickstart natural regeneration of the forest, large-scale replanting efforts began in 2023, with over 900,000 saplings planted and 680,000 more planned for 2024. These projects aim to restore nearly 2,000 acres of critical forest ecosystem, providing opportunity for biodiversity to recover and return the landscape to its natural state.
Location
Louisiana, USA
Project Type
Reforestation
Environmental Benefits
Habitat Restoration
Biodiversity Enhancement
Improved Forest Health
Increased Carbon Capture
About this forest
Kisatchie National Forest, the only national forest in Louisiana, covers about 604,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, including longleaf pine and flatwoods. This unique habitat supports many rare species, such as the pale pitcher plant and red-cockaded woodpecker. Additionally, the forest serves as a buffer for the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness, a designated wilderness area that significantly contributes to preserving biodiversity in the coastal plain region of the United States.
