Aspen-birch | Adaptation Workbook

Aspen-birch forests occur on a wide range of soil types and landforms, and are favored by frequent disturbance or management. Common species include quaking aspen, bigtooth aspen, paper birch, and balsam poplar.

Climate Impact Statements

Aspen-birch forests may be vulnerable to temperature increases and moisture stress from climate change.

Aspen-birch forests may be tolerant of increased disturbance to climate change.

Many dominant tree species in aspen-birch forests are expected to decline across northern Michigan by the end of the century (quaking aspen, balsam poplar, and paper birch).

Model projections for aspen are mixed under a range of future climate scenarios across northern Michigan, but drought stress may contribute to future declines.

Deer herbivory on preferred species may hinder regeneration.

Insect pests like forest tent caterpillar and spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) and diseases like hypoxylon canker may become more active and damaging in aspen-birch forests under a warmer climate.

Low diversity may limit the adaptive capacity of aspen-birch forests.

Vulnerability

Moderate

Adaptive Capacity

Moderate

Potential Impacts

Disruptive

Applicable Sectors

Forest [FAR1]

Forest

Forested watershed

Forest Carbon Management

Recreation

Non-Forested Wetlands

Wildlife Management