I don't think the idea is too good to be true, rather the opposite. However the true challenge is getting local governments and land owners to fence off the land and leave it alone for several years or decades. Simply letting it be seems to be the real issue in my experience.

Ah yes, the trees would adapt better to the soil conditions that way. I hope they turn out great for you!

Nice! I'm sure it'll look lovely. I did a quick check and saw that a lack of nitrogen in the soil can cause root rot in Pinus echinata, might I suggest planting clover around the base (I believe Dalea purpurea is your native and most common clover) to fix nitrogen into the soil around the roots?

Hi Alex, I found this one which has several good starting points: go.bsky.app/D413Ri4