Upland spruce-fir | Adaptation Workbook

Stands are generally dominated by white spruce (occasionally black spruce or Norway spruce). Some stands may have co-dominant tree species such as balsam fir or quaking aspen.

Climate Impact Statements

Upland spruce-fir forests may be tolerant of increased moisture stress and disturbance from climate change.

Dominant tree species in upland spruce-fir forests are expected to decline across northern Wisconsin and western Upper Michigan by the end of the century (balsam fir, black spruce, paper birch, quaking aspen, and white spruce).

Insect pests like spruce budworm may become more active and damaging to upland spruce-fir forests under a warmer climate.

Deer herbivory on preferred species may hinder regeneration.

Vulnerability

High

Adaptive Capacity

Low-Moderate

Potential Impacts

Very disruptive to ecosystem

Applicable Sectors

Forest [FAR1]

Forest

Forested watershed

Forest Carbon Management

Recreation

Non-Forested Wetlands

Wildlife Management