Presented by Dr. Ben Knapp, University of Missouri
Date: December 15, 2026, 12:00 – 1:00 PM central time
**Hosted in-partnership with The Southern Fire Exchange**
Register here (required): https://ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_w1l-lNWDTJqJi66ZRrj44w#/registration
Abstract:
Shortleaf pine is widely distributed in the eastern United States but often receives less attention than co-occurring species. Although associated with frequent-fire, open natural communities, it commonly occurs today in closed-canopy forests in mixture with other species. This presentation provides an overview of the range of variation where shortleaf pine occurs, discusses the state of knowledge and critical information gaps, and presents opportunities for overcoming barriers to increase its management.
Associated papers:
- Knapp, B.O., Fraser, J., Baggs, J., Chhatre, V.E., Clabo, D., Crouch, C.D., Dey, D.C., Hossain, S.M., Jack, S.B., Kabrick, J.M., Kidd, K.R., McNulty, S., Nordman, C., Olson, M.G., Palmquist, K., Pelkki, M., Schalk, C.M., Stambaugh, M.C., Varner, J.M., and Willis, J.L. 2026. Shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata): management challenges, knowledge gaps, and opportunities for an unsung species. Journal of Forestry. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44392-026-00084-x
- Fillingim, H., Knapp, B.O., Kabrick, J.M., Stambaugh, M.C., Elliott, G.P., and Dey, D.C. 2023. Direct and indirect effects of fire on germination of shortleaf pine seeds. Fire Ecology 19:53. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42408-023-00214-2
- Fillingim, H., Knapp, B.O., Kabrick, J.M., Stambaugh, M.C., Elliott, G.P., Dey, D.C. 2026. Resprouting dynamics suggest different regeneration strategies for shortleaf pine and oak species following surface fires in Missouri Ozarks. Forest Ecology and Management 602: 123396. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2025.123396
