Lykes Bros. Inc. manages nearly 30,000 acres of productive forestland on Lykes Ranch, balancing commercial timber operations with habitat conservation. Our forestry program includes eucalyptus and pine plantations, each managed with an eye toward sustainability, environmental stewardship, and long-term value.
We currently manage 15,000 acres of eucalyptus plantations—primarily the grandis species. Working closely with the University of Florida and other researchers, the Company helped develop high-yielding strains well suited to South Florida’s subtropical environment.
Eucalyptus is a remarkably efficient crop. Its coppicing ability allows each planting to be harvested two to four times before reestablishment is needed. Our plantations are currently managed on short rotations to meet regional demand for quality landscape mulch. Eucalyptus mulch is an environmentally sustainable alternative to cypress, offering comparable color, texture, and durability. Future market opportunities may include bioenergy, biochar, and dimensional wood products.
Lykes Bros. Inc. manages more than 14,000 acres of planted pine, primarily slash pine. Our pine timber is sold to local mulch producers, and the plantations offer strong potential for pine straw production as well.
Native pine areas on the Ranch are managed exclusively for habitat conservation through thinning harvests and prescribed burning—practices that promote healthy ecosystems and support wildlife. We also coordinate palmetto berry harvests in our natural areas, adding another layer of sustainable production from the land.
Kyle Fabbro
Forestry Manager
106 SW CR 721
Okeechobee, FL 34974-8613