In general, fire-adapted systems that have a more open structure and composition are less prone to high-severity wildfire. Frequent low-severity fire has also been shown to promote many species projected to do well under future climate projections, such as shortleaf pine and many oak species. Fire-suppressed systems, on the other hand, tend to have heavy encroachment of woody species in the understory that reduce regeneration potential for these fire-adapted trees. In addition, fire-suppressed systems can be more vulnerable to insect attack. Since the mid-1900s, lack of fire has led to at least a temporary increase in sugar maple in the eastern portion of the assessment area, and this species is not projected to fare well under projected climate change. However, it is important to note that effects of fire on species regeneration and disturbances can vary by site, species, and burn regime.