Pisgah National Forest

In 2024, a restoration effort was launched in the Graveyard Fields area of Pisgah National Forest, focusing on the reestablishment of native red spruce trees. This project involved planting 50 red spruce seedlings to restore the ecological balance of this high-elevation habitat. The red spruce, once abundant in the region, has been significantly reduced due to historical logging and environmental changes. The planting aims to enhance biodiversity, improve habitat quality for wildlife, and support the long-term resilience of the forest ecosystem. The seedlings were carefully selected and planted in locations that offer optimal conditions for growth, ensuring their successful integration into the landscape.

The restoration of red spruce is crucial to supporting native wildlife, such as the Carolina northern flying squirrel and numerous bird species that rely on these coniferous forests for shelter and food. The project also contributes to soil stabilization and improved watershed health by reducing erosion and enhancing water retention in the area.

Efforts to restore Pisgah National Forest have been ongoing for years. In 2019, a large-scale tree planting project was undertaken across national forests in North Carolina, including Pisgah, with the goal of improving forest health and resilience. A total of 72,393 trees were planted as part of this initiative, focusing on restoring native species and enhancing habitat conditions for local wildlife. This earlier effort laid the foundation for continued restoration work by promoting forest regeneration and increasing ecosystem stability.

The red spruce restoration initiative at Graveyard Fields began in 2024, aiming to plant approximately 500 trees over a 7 to 10-year period. In the initial phase, 50 young trees were carefully planted, achieving a remarkable 98% survival rate. In the fall of 2025, 100 additional red spruce trees are planned to be planted to further support the ecosystem’s recovery.