{"id":40463,"date":"2025-10-14T17:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-14T21:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/?p=40463"},"modified":"2025-10-21T15:06:22","modified_gmt":"2025-10-21T19:06:22","slug":"longleaf-pine-restoration","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-restoration\/","title":{"rendered":"Reviving a Southern Icon: How Science is Securing the Future of Longleaf Pine"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-lead\">Once stretching across more than 90 million acres of the southeastern United States, the longleaf pine is more than a botanical relic \u2014 it\u2019s a living emblem of the region\u2019s ecological and cultural identity. After centuries of neglect, this iconic species is experiencing a revival, driven by renewed conservation efforts and a deeper understanding of its environmental significance. But restoring the longleaf isn\u2019t just about planting more trees. It&#8217;s about planting the right trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s where science and strategy step in. In 2024, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.treeimprovement.org\/\">Cooperative Tree Improvement Program<\/a> (TIP) at North Carolina State University joined a five-year project with <a href=\"https:\/\/longleafalliance.org\/\">The Longleaf Alliance<\/a> to build a robust, genetically diverse archive of adapted longleaf pine trees that will supply seeds capable of sustaining the species across its historic range, from the coastal plains of Texas to southern Virginia.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Funded with a grant from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfwf.org\/\">National Fish and Wildlife Foundation<\/a>, the project focuses on building a reliable source of improved planting material of longleaf pine trees selected for broad adaptability, disease resistance, and a variety of economically important traits. Seed from the selected trees will meet the wide diversity of landowner objectives when establishing plantations. The selected trees will be established in specialized seed orchards, which are poised to supply the seeds needed for large-scale restoration efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n<aside class=\"right-aside wp-block-ncst-aside-widget\">\n    \n<a \n    class=\"has-custombg-four-text-color ncst-fact wp-block-ncst-aside-fact\"\n    href=\"https:\/\/plants.ces.ncsu.edu\/plants\/pinus-palustris\/\"\n          >\n      <span class=\"ncst-icon\">\n            <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M23.2336 7.13765H7.52109L7.13766 7.90406H6.37125V8.67187H5.98781C5.3175 9.43874 3.73781 9.43874 3.73781 9.43874V10.1569H3.01781L2.25 10.9219H1.485C1.2976 11.1343 1.06977 11.3073 0.814814 11.4307C0.559854 11.5542 0.282864 11.6256 0 11.6409L0 12.7425H3.01781C4.50281 11.9761 8.8125 12.1678 8.8125 12.1678L9.7725 13.125H12.7903L15.8086 16.8614H17.2453L19.4953 14.6114L20.9803 13.845H22.5131V13.0781L21.75 13.5089H20.9822L20.2158 12.7425L20.9822 13.125L22.0837 12.5498V11.9761H21.7031L20.9363 11.2097L21.7031 11.5926H23.1881L23.9531 10.8281V9.34124H23.5687V10.8281H23.1858V9.34124H21.7031L23.1881 8.57484H24V7.90406L23.2336 7.13765ZM17.8683 12.4073L16.4789 11.3531L15.09 12.4073L15.6169 10.6828L14.2275 9.62859H15.952L16.4789 7.90406L17.0058 9.62859H18.7303L17.3438 10.6828L17.8683 12.4073Z\" fill=\"currentColor\" \/><\/svg>\n\n    <\/span>\n              <h2 class=\"fact__heading\">Roots of the Tar Heel State<\/h2>\n            <p class=\"fact__support\">\n              The longleaf pine is a vital species in North Carolina, historically important for its &#8220;naval stores&#8221; like tar and turpentine, which gave the state its &#8220;Tar Heel&#8221; nickname.\n          <\/p>\n        <p class=\"fact__cta\">\n      <span class=\"text\">Learn more about this tree<\/span><span class=\"arrow-indicator\"><svg class=\"wolficon wolficon-arrow-right-bold\" role=\"img\"  aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<use xlink:href=\"#wolficon-arrow-right-bold\">\n\t\t<\/svg><\/span>\n    <\/p>\n    <\/a>\n\n\n  <\/aside>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe primary objective of the project is to secure well-characterized, locally adapted genetic material for longleaf pine,\u201d said TIP co-director <a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/trevor-walker\/\">Trevor Walker<\/a>, the project\u2019s principal investigator and an assistant professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources. \u201cThis material will support future seed orchards, improving seed supply and genetics for restoration efforts.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Restoring longleaf pine ecosystems is vital economically, culturally and historically. These forests support timber, wildlife and recreation and help boost local economies. They also hold deep cultural meaning for Indigenous communities and reflect the heritage of the southeastern U.S. Once widespread, longleaf pine forests were heavily lost to logging for timber, naval stores\u00a0and agriculture and misguided fire suppression policies, so their restoration helps revive both the environment and cultural connections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Building a Strong Genetic Foundation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At the heart of the project is the establishment of second-generation seed orchards populated with genotypes identified through rigorous progeny testing. A progeny test is a type of field trial where offspring from numerous parent trees are grown side by side in a common environment. This helps identify which traits are under genetic control rather than environmental, which is essential for choosing the best parents for future orchards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>TIP planted a progeny test series in 2011 with 6,500 longleaf pine trees to evaluate the growth, health and adaptability of different genetic lines. The trees in these tests originate from a wide range of genetic backgrounds, including wild seed sources from Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, as well as breeding programs led by the North Carolina Forest Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and other partners.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By carefully analyzing trial data, TIP staff are working to identify trees with the strongest and most desirable traits, removing any prone to defects like forking or diseases such as pitch canker and fusiform rust, which can harm pine forests. From the healthiest trees, they focus on families with the greatest potential to pass on good traits, inspecting the top trees in each group for straightness, disease resistance, branching and growth to ensure quality and long-term forest health. The result is the selection of superior trees from the most desirable families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-tip-progeny-test-provided-1500x844-1.jpeg\" data-fullsize=\"1500x844\" data-zoom=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-tip-progeny-test-provided-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"Longleaf pine trees growing in evenly spaced rows in a progeny test forest.\" class=\"wp-image-40504\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-tip-progeny-test-provided-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-tip-progeny-test-provided-1500x844-1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-tip-progeny-test-provided-1500x844-1-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-tip-progeny-test-provided-1500x844-1.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Rows of longleaf pines stand tall in a progeny test, where researchers study how different genetic families perform. Photo provided<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In essence, the \u201cbest\u201d trees are those that not only grow well but also withstand disease pressures. This multifaceted selection process ensures a genetically diverse and reliable population of longleaf pines with strong traits. As Walker said, \u201cYou cannot determine genetics just by looking at the tree; instead, you evaluate its progeny. By looking at how hundreds of offspring perform, we can figure out if a tree was a good parent. Then, we decide whether to keep or remove it.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>TIP staff, collaborating closely with the North Carolina Forest Service, have so far made 54 selections for the genetic archive. Of these, 48 come from TIP\u2019s progeny test series planted in 2011. The selections are expected to grow an average of 2.3 feet taller at age eight than trees from non-improved wild sources, and those prone to diseases like pitch canker and fusiform rust or undesirable traits such as excessive forking have been culled.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Balancing Growth, Genetics and Stakeholder Needs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With ambitions to make 300 selections by 2028, TIP is navigating a complex intersection of ecological goals and the practical demands of those who manage and depend on forests. Balancing these often competing priorities requires careful consideration and a strategic approach to tree improvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/tventer\/\">Tertius Venter<\/a>, TIP\u2019s longleaf tree improvement manager and one of the project\u2019s co-investigators, explained that selecting the right longleaf pines is complex due to their wide range in the southeastern U.S. A survey he conducted showed stakeholders have differing priorities, making it essential to understand their needs before choosing which traits to prioritize.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite this diversity, certain traits consistently rise to the top. \u201cEverybody mostly wants a fast-growing tree that produces good wood, is adapted to the planting site, and is disease-free or disease-resistant,\u201d Venter said. However, the selection process isn\u2019t uniform across all regions or stakeholders. Some prioritize faster growth, while others emphasize conserving a broad genetic base to maintain the population\u2019s health, resilience and naturally superior timber properties.<br><\/p>\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"has-custombg-four-text-color wp-block-ncst-pullquote\">\n  <div class=\"pullquote-container\">\n    <p class=\"pullquote-content\">&#8220;It\u2019s about combining science with stakeholder input to make sure we\u2019re growing trees that are not just better, but truly right for their environments.&#8221;<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>This is where the science gets intricate. Venter explained that even in populations that generally grow slowly, some superior individuals exist. TIP aims to conserve those trees while also capturing other traits to ensure the population remains representative and genetically diverse. \u201cThe trees we select have to reflect the diversity of the population, make economical and ecological sense, and not just be the fastest growers,&#8221; he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>TIP\u2019s balancing act between enhancing growth and preserving genetic diversity exemplifies a forward-thinking strategy that respects both ecological complexity and meets the varied needs of those who rely on them. \u201cIt\u2019s about combining science with stakeholder input to make sure we\u2019re growing trees that are not just better, but truly right for their environments,\u201d Venter said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Reproducing&nbsp;Superior Longleaf Pines for Genetic Preservation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To preserve and propagate its longleaf pine tree selections, TIP employs grafting. Grafting allows foresters to replicate specific trees with known and desirable traits by transferring scions, or cuttings, from those trees onto robust rootstocks. This process creates multiple copies of selected trees, ensuring that the valuable genetic gains identified through progeny testing are maintained intact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a natural forest stand, even if a single tree produces ideal cones with traits such as superior growth, disease resistance, or desirable needle characteristics, collecting cones from that one tree is limited. \u201cIf we can take cuttings from that tree and graft them, we can create 100, 1,000, or even more copies, and that\u2019s exactly what we do,\u201d said former TIP director and professor emeritus <a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/steve-mckeand\/\">Steve McKeand<\/a>, who now serves as one of the project\u2019s co-investigators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recently, with the generous donation of 300 slash pine rootstocks from Rayonier\u2019s Georgia facility, McKeand and other TIP staff, along with Rayonier nursery personnel, grafted longleaf pine scions, achieving an 86% success rate. These grafted trees now form a genetic archive that will serve as the foundation for new grafted seed orchards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These grafted seed orchards are especially valuable because they offer more reliable cone production, higher seed germination rates, and, crucially, produce seeds of known genetic origins. In contrast, wild collections are a genetic gamble, especially for a species whose survival hinges on its ecological fit. Like many widespread tree species, longleaf pine has evolved genetic populations adapted to specific regions, meaning seedlings from one region may not thrive when planted in another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-grafting-steve-mckeand-provided-1500x844-1.jpeg\" data-fullsize=\"1500x844\" data-zoom=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-grafting-steve-mckeand-provided-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"A man wearing a white hat, navy blue polo and khaki pants attaches a small pine branch onto another tree.\" class=\"wp-image-40505\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-grafting-steve-mckeand-provided-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-grafting-steve-mckeand-provided-1500x844-1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-grafting-steve-mckeand-provided-1500x844-1-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-grafting-steve-mckeand-provided-1500x844-1.jpeg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Steve McKeand, professor emeritus and former director of the Tree Improvement Program, grafts a longleaf pine scion onto a slash pine rootstock. Photo provided<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Grafted seed orchards are strategically established on land with ideal soil and climate to maximize the production of genetically superior seeds, according to McKeand. Unlike timber plantations, their design and management prioritize seed yield with known genetic quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the standout features of a seed orchard is its genetic diversity, typically containing 15 to 30 different pine selections to boost seed yield and adaptability. As McKeand said, using locally adapted seed is crucial. \u201cThe number one criterion is making sure the seedlings that arise from these orchards are adapted. If I\u2019m planting longleaf pine in the northeast central part of North Carolina, I don\u2019t want the seed to come from South Alabama. It\u2019s just not going to be adapted.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond environmental adaptation, seed orchards offer something natural stands simply can\u2019t: reliability. \u201cThere\u2019s nothing wrong with collecting cones from natural stands, but it\u2019s really unpredictable,\u201d McKeand admits. \u201cOne year you might get 100 bushels of cones, and the next year, none at all. In a seed orchard, you can control pests, maintain large crowns, fertilize and even irrigate, so it becomes a much more dependable source of seed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Championing Open-Source Genetics for Longleaf Pine<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Establishing grafted seed orchards is not the end goal, but a step toward a broader objective. The project ultimately aims to progress from the initial selection phase to developing a sustainable, collaborative breeding system. If this approach succeeds, it will resemble TIP\u2019s existing loblolly pine program, where members manage seed orchards and genetic archives, collect and grow seed, plant test sites, and continue the process of forward selection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Importantly, the project prioritizes open-source access to the longleaf pine genetic material. Once established, the improved trees will be made available to the broader seed orchard community in the form of scionwood, fostering collaboration and amplifying restoration impact across the longleaf range. Scionwood provides the genetic material for grafting, allowing stakeholders to propagate trees with desirable traits that improve growth, resilience and adaptability in future orchards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;This is a genetic resource for the community. The goal has always been to secure these materials so others can establish seed orchards, produce large quantities of seed, and use that seed for restoration,\u201d Walker said. \u201cIt&#8217;s not about exclusivity; it\u2019s about collaboration. We don\u2019t want to give the impression that this is only available to a select few. It\u2019s truly open source, a resource for anyone willing to do the work.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-after-grafting-provided-1500x844-2.png\" data-fullsize=\"1920x1080\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-after-grafting-provided-1500x844-2-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Close-up view of a longleaf pine scion attached to a slash pine rootstock with grafting material around the joint.\" class=\"wp-image-40507\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A close-up view of a longleaf pine scion grafted onto a slash pine rootstock. Photo provided<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In a field often driven by proprietary genetics and restricted access, this open-source approach stands out. For TIP and the broader community of researchers and land stewards, making these select trees widely available isn\u2019t just a philosophy; it\u2019s a practical strategy for large-scale restoration and long-term success. \u201cIf you try to do it on your own, it\u2019s a big job, and it probably won\u2019t get done,\u201d McKeand said. \u201cBut if we share and work together, you know what they say: a rising tide lifts all boats.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The roots of this openness run deep, as many of these improved tree genetics were developed through publicly funded programs. &#8220;The vast majority of the longleaf genetics work has been done by the U.S. Forest Service, the North Carolina Forest Service, and other state forestry agencies,&#8221; McKeand said. &#8220;They don\u2019t want to hand it over to a seed company that keeps it locked away. They want it in the community. It was developed with public money, so there\u2019s an obligation to keep it public.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Restoring Longleaf Pine Through Shared Research and United Efforts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As the project continues, collaboration will be essential. In fact, efforts to restore longleaf pine rely heavily on genetic resources maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. The federal agency manages most of the longleaf pine seed orchards in the southern U.S. and has collected genetic material from across the species range.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These orchards represent years of research and experimentation and form the foundation for current restoration efforts, according to McKeand. \u201cThe work being done now is based on years of research by federal and state agencies that identified selections from seed orchards established through previous trials,\u201d he said.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Current work involves selections from 120 families, but this is only a fraction of the genetic material preserved by the U.S. Forest Service. \u201cWe collected cones from 120 families, but the Forest Service has progeny from over 700 parents in trials,\u201d McKeand said. \u201cIt is a large genetic resource that is currently underutilized. We are trying to access and revive it, or it may be lost.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Decades ago, many efforts to improve longleaf pine trees were mostly abandoned, partly because the species was not widely planted or favored by many people at the time. Only a small number of people were planting longleaf pine, mainly due to the type of seedlings being used, which often did not survive well. As a result, the outcomes were usually disappointing.<\/p>\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"has-custombg-four-text-color wp-block-ncst-pullquote\">\n  <div class=\"pullquote-container\">\n    <p class=\"pullquote-content\">\u201cWith the right science and the right partnerships, we can give longleaf pine the future it deserves.\u201d<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>In recent years, however, there\u2019s been a shift. Over the past 30 years or so, the use of containerized seedlings has increased significantly. These seedlings perform much better, with survival rates that are far superior to those of the past. Because of this, landowners who have always wanted to plant longleaf pine are finally seeing success. Longleaf pine currently accounts for about 10% of all trees planted in the South.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of the genetic trials established by the U.S. Forest Service 25 to 35 years ago remain intact today, and it\u2019s crucial that TIP makes selections from these trials while the opportunity still exists. If not, these valuable sites risk being overtaken by housing developments, roads, wildfires, diseases or insect infestations. \u201cUnfortunately, nothing good tends to happen to these trials after about 20 years. So, our mission is to recover and protect that valuable genetic material before it disappears forever,\u201d McKeand said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>McKeand emphasized the potential value of these genetic resources: \u201cThere are 742 parents tested, and selecting from the top 300 or so would provide a significant genetic base with diverse traits. Such diversity is crucial for adapting to changing environmental conditions and meeting future demands, ensuring that these genetic resources remain valuable and effective for future use in tree breeding.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Building on this foundation, the collaboration between TIP, The Longleaf Alliance, the U.S. Forest Service and other partners ultimately represents a strategic investment in the future of forestry and conservation. \u201cThis project is about more than trees; it\u2019s about resilience, adaptability, and restoring a critical part of our southeastern ecosystems,\u201d Walker concluded. \u201cWith the right science and the right partnerships, we can give longleaf pine the future it deserves.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n<aside class=\"with-image wp-block-ncst-highlight\">\n    <h2 class=\"highlight__label\">Related<\/h2>\n    <a \n      href=\"https:\/\/www.treeimprovement.org\/\"\n      class=\"highlight__link\"\n    >\n              <div class=\"highlight__image-container\">\n          <div class=\"highlight__image-background\">\n            <img width=\"1500\" height=\"844\" \n              decoding=\"async\"\n              class=\"highlight__image wp-image-40508\"\n              src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/bladen-lake-orchard-tip-ncsu-1500x844-1.jpeg\"\n              alt=\"person collecting pine needles from a longleaf pine tree in a forest.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/bladen-lake-orchard-tip-ncsu-1500x844-1.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/bladen-lake-orchard-tip-ncsu-1500x844-1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/bladen-lake-orchard-tip-ncsu-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/bladen-lake-orchard-tip-ncsu-1500x844-1-768x432.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/>\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n            <div class=\"highlight__text-container\">\n        <h3 class=\"highlight__heading\">Growing Stronger Forests Through Genetics<\/h3>\n                  <p class=\"highlight__teaser\">The Cooperative Tree Improvement Program at North Carolina State University is a public-private partnership that uses genetic research to develop more productive and resilient forest trees.<\/p>\n                          <p class=\"highlight__cta\">\n            <span class=\"text\">Learn more<\/span>\n            <span class=\"arrow-indicator\">\n              <svg class=\"wolficon\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                <use xlink:href=\"#wolficon-arrow-right-bold\"><\/use>\n              <\/svg>\n            <\/span>\n          <\/p>\n              <\/div>\n    <\/a>\n  <\/aside>\n","protected":false,"raw":"<!-- wp:ncst\/dynamic-header {\"block\":\"ncst\/default-immersive-post-header\"} -->\n<!-- wp:ncst\/default-immersive-post-header {\"backgroundColor\":\"custombg_four\",\"displayCategoryID\":111,\"subtitle\":\"A collaborative research effort is underway to enhance the genetic diversity and adaptability of longleaf pine for future forests.\"} \/-->\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/dynamic-header -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"className\":\"is-style-lead\"} -->\n<p class=\"is-style-lead\">Once stretching across more than 90 million acres of the southeastern United States, the longleaf pine is more than a botanical relic \u2014 it\u2019s a living emblem of the region\u2019s ecological and cultural identity. After centuries of neglect, this iconic species is experiencing a revival, driven by renewed conservation efforts and a deeper understanding of its environmental significance. But restoring the longleaf isn\u2019t just about planting more trees. It's about planting the right trees.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>That\u2019s where science and strategy step in. In 2024, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.treeimprovement.org\/\">Cooperative Tree Improvement Program<\/a> (TIP) at North Carolina State University joined a five-year project with <a href=\"https:\/\/longleafalliance.org\/\">The Longleaf Alliance<\/a> to build a robust, genetically diverse archive of adapted longleaf pine trees that will supply seeds capable of sustaining the species across its historic range, from the coastal plains of Texas to southern Virginia.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Funded with a grant from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfwf.org\/\">National Fish and Wildlife Foundation<\/a>, the project focuses on building a reliable source of improved planting material of longleaf pine trees selected for broad adaptability, disease resistance, and a variety of economically important traits. Seed from the selected trees will meet the wide diversity of landowner objectives when establishing plantations. The selected trees will be established in specialized seed orchards, which are poised to supply the seeds needed for large-scale restoration efforts.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/aside-widget -->\n<!-- wp:ncst\/aside-fact {\"svgSlug\":\"north-carolina\",\"heading\":\"Roots of the Tar Heel State\",\"support\":\"The longleaf pine is a vital species in North Carolina, historically important for its \\u0022naval stores\\u0022 like tar and turpentine, which gave the state its \\u0022Tar Heel\\u0022 nickname.\",\"callToAction\":\"Learn more about this tree\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/plants.ces.ncsu.edu\/plants\/pinus-palustris\/\",\"textColor\":\"custombg_four\"} \/-->\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/aside-widget -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cThe primary objective of the project is to secure well-characterized, locally adapted genetic material for longleaf pine,\u201d said TIP co-director <a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/trevor-walker\/\">Trevor Walker<\/a>, the project\u2019s principal investigator and an assistant professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources. \u201cThis material will support future seed orchards, improving seed supply and genetics for restoration efforts.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Restoring longleaf pine ecosystems is vital economically, culturally and historically. These forests support timber, wildlife and recreation and help boost local economies. They also hold deep cultural meaning for Indigenous communities and reflect the heritage of the southeastern U.S. Once widespread, longleaf pine forests were heavily lost to logging for timber, naval stores\u00a0and agriculture and misguided fire suppression policies, so their restoration helps revive both the environment and cultural connections.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6]} -->\n<h2><strong>Building a Strong Genetic Foundation<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>At the heart of the project is the establishment of second-generation seed orchards populated with genotypes identified through rigorous progeny testing. A progeny test is a type of field trial where offspring from numerous parent trees are grown side by side in a common environment. This helps identify which traits are under genetic control rather than environmental, which is essential for choosing the best parents for future orchards.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>TIP planted a progeny test series in 2011 with 6,500 longleaf pine trees to evaluate the growth, health and adaptability of different genetic lines. The trees in these tests originate from a wide range of genetic backgrounds, including wild seed sources from Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, as well as breeding programs led by the North Carolina Forest Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and other partners.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>By carefully analyzing trial data, TIP staff are working to identify trees with the strongest and most desirable traits, removing any prone to defects like forking or diseases such as pitch canker and fusiform rust, which can harm pine forests. From the healthiest trees, they focus on families with the greatest potential to pass on good traits, inspecting the top trees in each group for straightness, disease resistance, branching and growth to ensure quality and long-term forest health. The result is the selection of superior trees from the most desirable families.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":40504,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"media\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-tip-progeny-test-provided-1500x844-1.jpeg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-tip-progeny-test-provided-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"Longleaf pine trees growing in evenly spaced rows in a progeny test forest.\" class=\"wp-image-40504\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Rows of longleaf pines stand tall in a progeny test, where researchers study how different genetic families perform. Photo provided<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In essence, the \u201cbest\u201d trees are those that not only grow well but also withstand disease pressures. This multifaceted selection process ensures a genetically diverse and reliable population of longleaf pines with strong traits. As Walker said, \u201cYou cannot determine genetics just by looking at the tree; instead, you evaluate its progeny. By looking at how hundreds of offspring perform, we can figure out if a tree was a good parent. Then, we decide whether to keep or remove it.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>TIP staff, collaborating closely with the North Carolina Forest Service, have so far made 54 selections for the genetic archive. Of these, 48 come from TIP\u2019s progeny test series planted in 2011. The selections are expected to grow an average of 2.3 feet taller at age eight than trees from non-improved wild sources, and those prone to diseases like pitch canker and fusiform rust or undesirable traits such as excessive forking have been culled.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6]} -->\n<h2><strong>Balancing Growth, Genetics and Stakeholder Needs<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>With ambitions to make 300 selections by 2028, TIP is navigating a complex intersection of ecological goals and the practical demands of those who manage and depend on forests. Balancing these often competing priorities requires careful consideration and a strategic approach to tree improvement.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/tventer\/\">Tertius Venter<\/a>, TIP\u2019s longleaf tree improvement manager and one of the project\u2019s co-investigators, explained that selecting the right longleaf pines is complex due to their wide range in the southeastern U.S. A survey he conducted showed stakeholders have differing priorities, making it essential to understand their needs before choosing which traits to prioritize.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Despite this diversity, certain traits consistently rise to the top. \u201cEverybody mostly wants a fast-growing tree that produces good wood, is adapted to the planting site, and is disease-free or disease-resistant,\u201d Venter said. However, the selection process isn\u2019t uniform across all regions or stakeholders. Some prioritize faster growth, while others emphasize conserving a broad genetic base to maintain the population\u2019s health, resilience and naturally superior timber properties.<br><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/pullquote {\"value\":\"\\u0022It\u2019s about combining science with stakeholder input to make sure we\u2019re growing trees that are not just better, but truly right for their environments.\\u0022\",\"textColor\":\"custombg_four\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>This is where the science gets intricate. Venter explained that even in populations that generally grow slowly, some superior individuals exist. TIP aims to conserve those trees while also capturing other traits to ensure the population remains representative and genetically diverse. \u201cThe trees we select have to reflect the diversity of the population, make economical and ecological sense, and not just be the fastest growers,\" he said.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>TIP\u2019s balancing act between enhancing growth and preserving genetic diversity exemplifies a forward-thinking strategy that respects both ecological complexity and meets the varied needs of those who rely on them. \u201cIt\u2019s about combining science with stakeholder input to make sure we\u2019re growing trees that are not just better, but truly right for their environments,\u201d Venter said.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6]} -->\n<h2><strong>Reproducing&nbsp;Superior Longleaf Pines for Genetic Preservation<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To preserve and propagate its longleaf pine tree selections, TIP employs grafting. Grafting allows foresters to replicate specific trees with known and desirable traits by transferring scions, or cuttings, from those trees onto robust rootstocks. This process creates multiple copies of selected trees, ensuring that the valuable genetic gains identified through progeny testing are maintained intact.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In a natural forest stand, even if a single tree produces ideal cones with traits such as superior growth, disease resistance, or desirable needle characteristics, collecting cones from that one tree is limited. \u201cIf we can take cuttings from that tree and graft them, we can create 100, 1,000, or even more copies, and that\u2019s exactly what we do,\u201d said former TIP director and professor emeritus <a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/directory\/steve-mckeand\/\">Steve McKeand<\/a>, who now serves as one of the project\u2019s co-investigators.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Recently, with the generous donation of 300 slash pine rootstocks from Rayonier\u2019s Georgia facility, McKeand and other TIP staff, along with Rayonier nursery personnel, grafted longleaf pine scions, achieving an 86% success rate. These grafted trees now form a genetic archive that will serve as the foundation for new grafted seed orchards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>These grafted seed orchards are especially valuable because they offer more reliable cone production, higher seed germination rates, and, crucially, produce seeds of known genetic origins. In contrast, wild collections are a genetic gamble, especially for a species whose survival hinges on its ecological fit. Like many widespread tree species, longleaf pine has evolved genetic populations adapted to specific regions, meaning seedlings from one region may not thrive when planted in another.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":40505,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"media\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-grafting-steve-mckeand-provided-1500x844-1.jpeg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-grafting-steve-mckeand-provided-1500x844-1-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"A man wearing a white hat, navy blue polo and khaki pants attaches a small pine branch onto another tree.\" class=\"wp-image-40505\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Steve McKeand, professor emeritus and former director of the Tree Improvement Program, grafts a longleaf pine scion onto a slash pine rootstock. Photo provided<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Grafted seed orchards are strategically established on land with ideal soil and climate to maximize the production of genetically superior seeds, according to McKeand. Unlike timber plantations, their design and management prioritize seed yield with known genetic quality.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>One of the standout features of a seed orchard is its genetic diversity, typically containing 15 to 30 different pine selections to boost seed yield and adaptability. As McKeand said, using locally adapted seed is crucial. \u201cThe number one criterion is making sure the seedlings that arise from these orchards are adapted. If I\u2019m planting longleaf pine in the northeast central part of North Carolina, I don\u2019t want the seed to come from South Alabama. It\u2019s just not going to be adapted.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Beyond environmental adaptation, seed orchards offer something natural stands simply can\u2019t: reliability. \u201cThere\u2019s nothing wrong with collecting cones from natural stands, but it\u2019s really unpredictable,\u201d McKeand admits. \u201cOne year you might get 100 bushels of cones, and the next year, none at all. In a seed orchard, you can control pests, maintain large crowns, fertilize and even irrigate, so it becomes a much more dependable source of seed.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6]} -->\n<h2><strong>Championing Open-Source Genetics for Longleaf Pine<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Establishing grafted seed orchards is not the end goal, but a step toward a broader objective. The project ultimately aims to progress from the initial selection phase to developing a sustainable, collaborative breeding system. If this approach succeeds, it will resemble TIP\u2019s existing loblolly pine program, where members manage seed orchards and genetic archives, collect and grow seed, plant test sites, and continue the process of forward selection.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Importantly, the project prioritizes open-source access to the longleaf pine genetic material. Once established, the improved trees will be made available to the broader seed orchard community in the form of scionwood, fostering collaboration and amplifying restoration impact across the longleaf range. Scionwood provides the genetic material for grafting, allowing stakeholders to propagate trees with desirable traits that improve growth, resilience and adaptability in future orchards.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\"This is a genetic resource for the community. The goal has always been to secure these materials so others can establish seed orchards, produce large quantities of seed, and use that seed for restoration,\u201d Walker said. \u201cIt's not about exclusivity; it\u2019s about collaboration. We don\u2019t want to give the impression that this is only available to a select few. It\u2019s truly open source, a resource for anyone willing to do the work.\"<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":40507,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"media\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-after-grafting-provided-1500x844-2.png\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/longleaf-pine-after-grafting-provided-1500x844-2-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Close-up view of a longleaf pine scion attached to a slash pine rootstock with grafting material around the joint.\" class=\"wp-image-40507\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A close-up view of a longleaf pine scion grafted onto a slash pine rootstock. Photo provided<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In a field often driven by proprietary genetics and restricted access, this open-source approach stands out. For TIP and the broader community of researchers and land stewards, making these select trees widely available isn\u2019t just a philosophy; it\u2019s a practical strategy for large-scale restoration and long-term success. \u201cIf you try to do it on your own, it\u2019s a big job, and it probably won\u2019t get done,\u201d McKeand said. \u201cBut if we share and work together, you know what they say: a rising tide lifts all boats.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The roots of this openness run deep, as many of these improved tree genetics were developed through publicly funded programs. \"The vast majority of the longleaf genetics work has been done by the U.S. Forest Service, the North Carolina Forest Service, and other state forestry agencies,\" McKeand said. \"They don\u2019t want to hand it over to a seed company that keeps it locked away. They want it in the community. It was developed with public money, so there\u2019s an obligation to keep it public.\"<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"levelOptions\":[2,3,4,5,6]} -->\n<h2><strong>Restoring Longleaf Pine Through Shared Research and United Efforts<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As the project continues, collaboration will be essential. In fact, efforts to restore longleaf pine rely heavily on genetic resources maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. The federal agency manages most of the longleaf pine seed orchards in the southern U.S. and has collected genetic material from across the species range.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>These orchards represent years of research and experimentation and form the foundation for current restoration efforts, according to McKeand. \u201cThe work being done now is based on years of research by federal and state agencies that identified selections from seed orchards established through previous trials,\u201d he said.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Current work involves selections from 120 families, but this is only a fraction of the genetic material preserved by the U.S. Forest Service. \u201cWe collected cones from 120 families, but the Forest Service has progeny from over 700 parents in trials,\u201d McKeand said. \u201cIt is a large genetic resource that is currently underutilized. We are trying to access and revive it, or it may be lost.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Decades ago, many efforts to improve longleaf pine trees were mostly abandoned, partly because the species was not widely planted or favored by many people at the time. Only a small number of people were planting longleaf pine, mainly due to the type of seedlings being used, which often did not survive well. As a result, the outcomes were usually disappointing.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/pullquote {\"value\":\"\u201cWith the right science and the right partnerships, we can give longleaf pine the future it deserves.\u201d\",\"textColor\":\"custombg_four\"} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In recent years, however, there\u2019s been a shift. Over the past 30 years or so, the use of containerized seedlings has increased significantly. These seedlings perform much better, with survival rates that are far superior to those of the past. Because of this, landowners who have always wanted to plant longleaf pine are finally seeing success. Longleaf pine currently accounts for about 10% of all trees planted in the South.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Some of the genetic trials established by the U.S. Forest Service 25 to 35 years ago remain intact today, and it\u2019s crucial that TIP makes selections from these trials while the opportunity still exists. If not, these valuable sites risk being overtaken by housing developments, roads, wildfires, diseases or insect infestations. \u201cUnfortunately, nothing good tends to happen to these trials after about 20 years. So, our mission is to recover and protect that valuable genetic material before it disappears forever,\u201d McKeand said.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>McKeand emphasized the potential value of these genetic resources: \u201cThere are 742 parents tested, and selecting from the top 300 or so would provide a significant genetic base with diverse traits. Such diversity is crucial for adapting to changing environmental conditions and meeting future demands, ensuring that these genetic resources remain valuable and effective for future use in tree breeding.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Building on this foundation, the collaboration between TIP, The Longleaf Alliance, the U.S. Forest Service and other partners ultimately represents a strategic investment in the future of forestry and conservation. \u201cThis project is about more than trees; it\u2019s about resilience, adaptability, and restoring a critical part of our southeastern ecosystems,\u201d Walker concluded. \u201cWith the right science and the right partnerships, we can give longleaf pine the future it deserves.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/highlight {\"heading\":\"Growing Stronger Forests Through Genetics\",\"teaser\":\"The Cooperative Tree Improvement Program at North Carolina State University is a public-private partnership that uses genetic research to develop more productive and resilient forest trees.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.treeimprovement.org\/\",\"callToAction\":\"Learn more\",\"imageID\":40508,\"imageURL\":\"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/10\/bladen-lake-orchard-tip-ncsu-1500x844-1.jpeg\",\"imageAlt\":\"person collecting pine needles from a longleaf pine tree in a forest.\"} \/-->"},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A collaborative research effort is underway to enhance the genetic diversity and adaptability of longleaf pine for future forests.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":171,"featured_media":38151,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"views\/single-immersive.blade.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"source":"","ncst_custom_author":"","ncst_show_custom_author":false,"ncst_dynamicHeaderBlockName":"ncst\/default-immersive-post-header","ncst_dynamicHeaderData":"{\"backgroundColor\":\"custombg_four\",\"displayCategoryID\":111,\"showAuthor\":true,\"showDate\":true,\"showFeaturedVideo\":false,\"subtitle\":\"A collaborative research effort is underway to enhance the genetic diversity and adaptability of longleaf pine for future forests.\"}","ncst_content_audit_freq":"","ncst_content_audit_date":"","ncst_content_audit_display":false,"ncst_backToTopFlag":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[111,1,102,3],"tags":[299,261,250,362],"_ncst_magazine_issue":[],"class_list":["post-40463","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-fer-research","category-hidden-news","category-hidden-newswire","category-research-innovation","tag-cooperative-tree-improvement-program","tag-fer-research","tag-forest-genetics","tag-forestry-and-environmental-resources"],"displayCategory":{"term_id":111,"name":"Forestry and Environmental Resources Research","slug":"fer-research","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":111,"taxonomy":"category","description":"","parent":3,"count":80,"filter":"raw"},"acf":{"ncst_posts_meta_modified_date":null},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40463","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/171"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=40463"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40463\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":40537,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40463\/revisions\/40537"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/38151"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=40463"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=40463"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=40463"},{"taxonomy":"_ncst_magazine_issue","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cnr.ncsu.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/_ncst_magazine_issue?post=40463"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}