History of Bladen Lakes State Forest
Bladen Lakes State Forest emerged as one of many economic initiatives to combat the depression of the 1930s to combat widespread poverty. The objectives of the program were: build up the growing stock, utilize all resources, employ local labor, and to demonstrate that the property can be more than just self sustaining. Bladen Lakes is a unique State Forest in that it demonstrates how forest resources can be utilized into products. Today, Bladen Lakes State Forest is engaged in a variety of production efforts and conservation initiatives while providing unique recreation opportunities.
Notable Dates:
- 1936-1942 Federal Government acquired 35,875 Acres under the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act
- 1954 Property turned over to the State of North Carolina
Past Production Efforts:
- Naval Stores
- Sawmill
- Treated Fence Posts
Current Production Efforts:
- Timber & Industrial Pine Straw Production
- Wildlife Habitat Management
- Gamelands
- Retail Charcoal Production
- Seed Orchards (Longleaf Pine)
- Research, Education & Training
- Military Landing Zones & Training
Bladen Lakes State Forest is an exemplary demonstration forest that has improved itself over that past 80 years. What is the future of BLSF? The forest will continue to serve as an education and demonstration forest to showcase to landowners who want to see what can be accomplished on their lands. Forest certification itself is a relatively new development that we are also showcasing here at the forest. Bladen Lakes continues to evolve to effectively demonstrate North Carolina forest practices and serve the people of North Carolina.