CHAPTER IV: WILDLIFE HABITATS FOR MISSISSIPPI’S SGCN,
THREATS AND CONSERVATION ACTIONS^122A Develop/implement/continue recovery plans for individual SGCN.
A Encourage restoration and improved management of altered/degraded habitat when possible.
A Encourage and improve agricultural/forestry/watershed land-use planning and BMPs to address
nonpoint pollution, erosion and water quality issues.
A Encourage retention, preservation, and conservation of remaining natural habitat through
purchase, easements or MOAs.
A Prohibit gravel mining in stream channels, discourage gravel mining in floodplains and improve
oversight and planning for such mines on upland sites.
A Control exotic and invasive species (plant and animal).
A Enhance viability of SGCN by providing habitat corridors between disjunct populations or
subpopulations.
A Provide public education about conservation of SGCN and/or their habitats.
A Promote and develop landowner incentive and assistance programs for conservation of SGCN
and their habitats.
A Encourage appreciation of SGCN and their habitats by providing public access and compatible
recreational activities.
3.2 Mesic (Moderately Moist)
Longleaf Pine Savanna/Forests
Value to SGCN - 72
Rank - 6th of 29 Inland Terrestrial Complexes
(Terrestrial, Wetland, Subterranean and Anthropogenic)DESCRIPTION
This forest type occurs on deep, well-drained to
moderately well-drained, permeable soils on uplands and stream terraces of the piney woods region in
southern Mississippi, a region which receives 60 inches of precipitation annually. The historical
longleaf pine forest extended from the wetlands of the coast to the mixed pine-hardwood forests of
central Mississippi and from the border of Alabama to the loess hills. Fires maintained forests and
savannas of massive, well-spaced longleaf pine trees. Combustible leaf litter and grassy understory
carried natural wildfires through the longleaf region. Sampling of virgin forests over a century ago
indicated that tree densities averaged about 100 per acre, or 400 square feet per tree. With the wider
spacing of trees, ample sunlight was able to reach the forest floor and support a diverse cover of herbs.
While many stands are pure longleaf pine, loblolly and slash pine are common in others. Blackjack,
post oak and southern red oak trees are also locally common. In some stands not managed with fire,
dense shrub and vine thickets, reaching six to fifteen feet in height, will shade out the normally rich