LAUSR

Abstract Southern pine beetle (SPB; Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmerman), a native insect that has historically affected pine (Pinus spp.) ecosystems in the southeastern U.S., has recently expanded northward causing extensive tree mortality in pitch pine (P. rigida) and pitch pine-oak (Quercus spp.) forests of eastern Long Island, NY. Given the historic lack of SPB within this region, little is known regarding its potential impacts. This study examined the immediate effects of SPB-induced tree mortality and management (i.e., cut-and leave suppression) on the structure and composition of affected forest communities to inform management recommendations and projections of future forest conditions. Overstory pine basal area declined significantly following SPB infestation and management (67–100% mortality), although management partly mitigated these effects. There was no immediate impact of SPB or management on seedling and sapling density or composition, with hardwood species making up the majority of this layer and pine representing