Post 18

In the past, pitch pine (Pinus rigida) was a major source of pitch and timber for shipbuilding, railroad ties, and mine timbers because the wood's high resin content preserved it from decay. On South Hill, we have pitch pine communities on areas of dry, nutrient-poor soil. Pitch pine heath barrens are characterized by a tall open canopy, an understory of dwarf shrubs like blueberry and deerberry (Vaccinium spp.) and little to no tall shrub layer.