Insect pests and diseases could become more active and virulent in lowland and riparian 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.