Climate change may promote open canopy conditions in oak and pine forests, which would benefit barrens systems.

These systems require only minor tree cover, and many of the species that can occur in these systems are expected to remain stable across the landscape. White-tailed deer herbivory is less of a threat to barrens, and may actually help promote open canopy conditions. Similarly, insect pest outbreaks from jack pine budworm or western pine beetles might favor barrens systems across the landscape. Drought and fire may also reduce canopy cover in oak and pine forests.