Pine flatwoods are common in the southeastern Coastal Plain and extensive in Florida ( Figure 1). This forest type is increasingly used for timber production. As the total number of forested acres in Florida diminishes, needs for forest products are increasing. At the same time, there are other resource needs that must be satisfied. Wildlife habitat is an excellent example. Although these two needs can be compatible in multiple-use forests, they are frequently seen as competitive. Forests and wildlife are linked together since many wildlife species are directly dependent upon the forest. Good forest management is not necessarily good wildlife management and vice versa. Most forest management practices affect wildlife habitat and result in changes in the wildlife community.

This publication is aimed primarily at the private forest landowner in Florida. Although these landowners generally hold small parcels compared to industrial forests, such holdings represent the majority of forested lands in the state. Florida pine flatwoods are probably the most intensively managed for commercial purposes, and for this reason, management options favoring wildlife in pine flatwoods will be emphasized. We will attempt to illustrate ways in which timber and wildlife management can be successfully combined in an integrated approach consistent with ecosystem functions to fulfill multiple resource objectives.

What are pine flatwoods?

Flatwoods Wildlife

Changing Forest Structure for Wildlife

Developing a Management Plan

Silvicultural Practices and their Effects on Wildlife

Conclusions

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