Mesic Hardwood Forest System | Adaptation Workbook

These forests are found on sites with moist soils, usually in settings protected from fire. They are characterized by continuous, often dense, canopies of deciduous trees including sugar maple, basswood, paper birch, and northern red oak. Plants in these forest systems have predictable supplies of water and nutrients, but may be limited by low-light conditions.

Climate Impact Statements

Some species in Mesic Hardwood Forests are projected to decline across northern Minnesota by the end of the century (quaking aspen, paper birch).

Many Mesic Hardwood Forest species are projected to increase or remain stable across northern Minnesota by the end of the century (basswood, sugar maple, red maple, green ash, white pine, bur oak).

Insect pests and diseases in Mesic Hardwood Forests may become more damaging under a warmer climate.

Deer herbivory on preferred species may hinder regeneration.

Mesic Hardwood Forests may not tolerate extended droughts.

Climate change may intensify interactions among multiple stressors in Mesic Hardwood Forests.

Mesic Hardwood Forests with high species and structural diversity have less overall risk from climate change.

Vulnerability

Moderate

Adaptive Capacity

Moderate-High