Vulnerability assessment for pitch pine dominated forests in Southeastern Massachusetts

Project Title: Vulnerability assessment for pitch pine dominated forests in Southeastern Massachusetts

Duration: Onsite September 3 – 30, 2026

Funding Source(s): USDA FS

 Principal Investigator(s): Anthony D’Amato, University of Vermont (awdamato@uvm.edu)

Onsite: Kathleen Stutzman, University of Vermont (kstutzma@uvm.edu)

Project Description: The vulnerability assessment for pitch pine dominated forests and woodlands in Southeastern Massachusetts (SE MA) seeks to gather information on forest composition and stocking to generate a detailed and site-specific rating on the hazard of southern pine beetle (SPB) outbreak. Levels of SPB have been rising in SE MA over the past few years and small outbreaks pockets are taking shape. Pitch pine forests provide recreational, cultural, ecological, and economic value across SE MA and SPB presents a serious and imminent threat to their well-being and continued existence. SPB can lead to complete pitch pine overstory mortality in as little as a year. This work will assist in informing restoration activities and management prioritization, helping to ensure the continued health and presence of these important and rare forests.