Caring for Callaway's Forests

For generations, Callaway Resort & Gardens has been a place where families can experience nature's beauty and wonder together. Caring for this extraordinary 2,500-acre landscape is an important part of ensuring it remains healthy and beautiful for generations to come.

Callaway Resort and the Ida Cason Callaway Foundation are currently undertaking targeted forest-management work in response to southern pine beetle activity affecting pine trees in portions of the property.

Southern pine beetles are native to the southeastern United States and periodically affect pine forests throughout the region. Once trees become infested, options for saving them are limited. Timely removal of affected trees, together with ongoing forest-management practices, helps limit further spread and support the health and resilience of the surrounding forest.

You may periodically notice tree removal, forestry equipment, and temporary road or trail closures in select areas while this work is underway. These closures are for everyone's safety, and we ask guests to follow all posted signs.

This work is about more than removing affected trees. Callaway and the Ida Cason Callaway Foundation are planning for the long-term health of these areas, including future restoration and replanting. Additional details will be shared as those plans develop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a southern pine beetle?

The southern pine beetle is a small, naturally occurring insect native to the southeastern United States. During periods of increased activity, the beetles can attack pine trees and spread to neighboring trees.

Why is Callaway removing trees?

Southern pine beetles have affected pine trees in portions of the property. Removing affected trees is an established forest-management practice that helps suppress active infestations and protect surrounding forest areas.

How much of Callaway is affected?

Callaway has hundreds of thousands of trees across its 2,500-acre property, with less than 1% of that tree population impacted. 

Why can't the affected trees simply be treated?

Once southern pine beetles have successfully infected a pine tree, options for saving it are limited. Forestry management therefore focuses on identifying affected areas, removing deceased trees, and taking steps that can reduce the opportunity for an active infestation to spread.

Does removing healthy-looking trees ever become necessary?

In some circumstances, forestry professionals may recommend removing trees immediately surrounding an active infestation to help interrupt its spread. Some of these trees may still appear healthy.

Will Callaway replant the areas?

Yes. Callaway and the Ida Cason Callaway Foundation are developing plans for restoration and appropriate replanting in affected areas. More information will be shared as those plans are finalized.

Will this affect my visit?

Callaway remains open and welcoming guests. There may be temporary closures or detours around specific work areas while forestry crews and equipment are operating.

How long will the work take?

Forest management is an ongoing process, and work may take place periodically as areas are evaluated and addressed. However, all forestry efforts are designed to minimize the impact on the guest experience. 

Is southern pine beetle unique to Callaway?

No. Southern pine beetles are native to the southeastern United States and periodically affect pine forests throughout the region.