The Loss of Longleaf Pine Ecosystems Mature Longleaf Pine ecosystems once dominated the southeastern United States, covering 2/3rds (90 million acres) of the Gulf Coastal Plain. Now, less than 5% remain. Almost all of the majestic old-growth trees (many close to 500 years old) were logged in the early 19th century, and their ecosystems were replaced by agricultural fields, pine plantations, and urban development. The remaining patches were degraded by fire suppression. Few Floridians can compreh