Many invasive species, insect pests, and pathogens in the Central Appalachians will increase or become more damaging this will affect the dry/mesic oak forest ecosystem.

Increased drought risk, especially during the growing season, may increase susceptibility to red oak borer, ambrosia beetle, gypsy moth, armillaria root rot, and other insect pests and diseases. Tree-of–heaven, Japanese stiltgrass, and garlic mustard, which often out-compete native herbs and shrubs in this ecosystem, are expected to do well in warmer temperatures.