Most dominant tree species in lowland conifer forests are expected to decline across northern Michigan by the end of the century (balsam fir, black spruce, eastern hemlock, northern white-cedar, and tamarack).

These are boreal species near their southern range limits in Michigan. Multiple forest impact models tend to agree that these species are more likely to decline in suitable habitat and biomass across a range of climate scenarios by the end of the century. These forests may not maintain their identity if dominant species decline and water tables change.