For many tree species, the most climatically suited areas will shift from their current locations, increasing vulnerability to insects, disease, and fire in areas that become unsuitable. Projections indicate that 21 to 38 currently existing plant species may no longer find climatically appropriate habitat in the Northwest by late this century. Subalpine forests and alpine ecosystems are especially at risk and may undergo almost complete conversion to other vegetation types by the 2080s. For example, Climate is projected to become unfavorable for Douglas-fir over 32 percent of its current range in Washington by the end of the century.
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