Beech bark disease, white pine blister rust, and other diseases could become more active and virulent in Michigan's northern hardwood forests under a warmer climate.

Under a high emissions scenario, researchers forecast more insect pest damage in northern forests due to increased metabolic activity in active periods and increased winter survival. Drought-stressed trees are also typically more vulnerable to insect pests and diseases. Emerald ash borer and Dutch elm disease are expected to continue to limit ash and elm species. New pests such as Asian longhorn beetle present unknown risks.