Although severe drought or intense fire could damage the dry oak and pine/oak forest and woodland ecosystem, a moderate increase in drought and fire is likely to benefit this ecosystem.

Submitted by dshannon on

The dry oak and pine/oak forest and woodland ecosystem is the most resilient to heat and drought, with many of the species currently doing well, and projected to do well under future climate. Increased drought and fire are likely to benefit this ecosystem, discourage invasive species, and maintain an open structure that benefits oak and pine regeneration. Many pine and oak species are fire-adapted and drought tolerant, some requiring high intensity fire to regenerate. A history of fire suppression and succession has contributed to a reduced pine component in favor of oak species. Increased wildfire frequency could help regenerate and promote both oak and pine species. Severe drought may negatively impact regeneration, or combine with other stressors to make individuals more susceptible to mortality or reduced productivity.