Eglin Air Force Base Project
Est. in Florida
About the Project
Eglin Air Force Base spans nearly 500,000 acres of the Florida Panhandle. Along with being a key military training headquarters, it’s also one of the most biodiverse areas in the country and contains the largest remaining contiguous stand of longleaf pine trees in the world. Widespread restoration efforts are needed to keep the land within Elgin Air Force Base thriving for generations to come. In 2023, the Arbor Day Foundation will help plant longleaf pine trees across the base, reducing forest fragmentation and protecting the many endangered wildlife that call the area home.
Types of Trees Planted
- Longleaf pine
- Variety
PROVIDE WATER
More than 50% of U.S. drinking water comes from forests. Trees pull water out from the ground and release it back into the rivers and lakes.
CLEAN AIR
Trees have been dubbed the “lungs of the Earth” because they absorb pollutants and filter contaminants in the air.
CREATE OXYGEN
One large tree can provide a day’s supply of oxygen for up to 4 people, while 2 ac. of forest provides enough for 500+ people each year.
IMPROVE SOIL
Trees break down organic matter then release nutrients back into the soil, which counteracts plants that take these nutrients out of the soil.
PREVENT DISASTERS
Tree root systems absorb water and stabilize soil, which help prevent erosion, flooding, and other natural disasters from happening.
HELP WILDLIFE
Trees are essential to wildlife and ecosystems. They provide food, protection, and homes for many birds and mammals.