Forest

Many of the management practices that are already “smart forestry” can have valuable win-win benefits for climate change adaptation.

Foresters and forest owners will respond to climate change in different ways, based on their judgment of the associated risks and opportunities. A range of adaptation actions can be taken, which can be selected based on management objectives.

Forests are affected by the local climate, in addition to being affected by short-term weather events. Michigan’s climate has been changing over the past several decades, and continued climate change could result in many impacts to forests in our state.

Climate change will affect different tree species and forest types in different ways. Forest impact models can be combined with manager expertise to assess which species and forest types are at risk and which may benefit from projected changes.

The sugar maple tree’s limited distribution is affected by high temperatures, low rainfall, and unseasonable variation in the onset of spring warming events. Climate change can impact the production of maple syrup.

Forests are an invaluable economic and environmental resource of Vermont. Climate change will likely affect many forest functions that humans rely on, including clean water, recreational opportunities, forest products, wildlife habitat, and colorful fall foliage.

Over the last 100 years, average global temperatures have increased by approximately 1.2° C (2.2° F) due to increasing atmospheric concentrations of heat-trapping greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2). As the seasons progress, forests have less summer water source making them more prone to drought and ultimately, more vulnerable to wildfires. Tribes can adapt to increased wildfire risk and reduce wildfire occurrence.

Forestlands in Texas are experiencing increased threats from fire, insect and plant invasions, disease, extreme weather, and drought. Although many of the effects of future changes are negative, natural resource management can help mitigate these impacts.

Trees store carbon as they grow and produce wood. Carbon dioxide cycles among carbon “sinks,” such as plants, soil, and the ocean, that store carbon. The ability of trees to store carbon can be used to reduce the global carbon dioxide levels.

Forestlands in Florida are experiencing increased threats from fire, insect and plant invasions, disease, extreme weather, and drought. Although many of the effects of future changes are negative, natural resource management can help mitigate these impacts.