Mississippi Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program

Cost-share for private non-industrial landowners to thin dense pine stands (pre-commercial and first commercial thinnings) before southern pine beetle outbreaks, regardless of pulpwood markets. Pays up to $100 per acre, capped at $10,000 (100 acres) per individual or $15,000 (150 acres) for multi-member entities. Funded by the USDA Forest Service and administered by MFC; funding is currently described as very limited.

• Non-industrial landowner owning no more than 5,000 acres (sole proprietors, partnerships, family limited partnerships, LLCs, trusts, estates; usually excludes C-corporations and REITs)

• Pine plantation must NOT already be enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)

• 20 acres (or more) of contiguous pine stand; multiple parcels up to 100 acres per application

• Pre-commercial thinning: 4-12 years old, more than 700 stems per acre, at least 70% loblolly, shortleaf or slash pine, SPB hazard moderate or higher; first commercial thinning: 12 years or older, at least 70% loblolly/shortleaf/slash, SPB hazard high or very high

Receipts for actual costs required before payment (federal reporting); rate is $100 per acre or cost, whichever is less (2024 Guide).

Published amounts: Landowners may be eligible for up to $100 per acre for pre-commercial and first-commercial thinnings. Total cost shares will not exceed $10,000 (100 acres) per individual landowner (sole proprietor). There is also a limit of $15,000 (150 acres) for a partnership, LLC, FLP, estate, or trust with two or more members.

Get on the waiting list and schedule a field visit; contact a local forester to plan the thinning; the Cost-Share Administrator inspects the stand before thinning (thinning before inspection disqualifies); enroll by signing a Cost Share Application and W-9 with proof of ownership and legal description.

Deadline text on the page: Now Accepting Applications in All Counties in Mississippi. Cost-share monies are administered on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified pine stands (waiting list). MFC SPB page, 2026-09-23: 'Very limited funding is available for the Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program to certain landowners who qualify.'