Lowland conifers | Adaptation Workbook

This forest system occurs on peat or mineral soils that are saturated throughout growing season. Common tree species include northern white-cedar, black spruce, tamarack, and other boreal species.

Climate Impact Statements

Lowland conifer forests may have limited tolerance to changes in water tables.

Peat soils may be vulnerabile to climate change in lowland conifer forests.

Most dominant tree species in lowland conifer forests are expected to decline across northern Michigan by the end of the century (balsam fir, black spruce, eastern hemlock, northern white-cedar, and tamarack).

Lowland conifer forests may not be able to migrate to other locations on the landscape to cope with climate change.

Vulnerability

Moderate-High

Adaptive Capacity

Low-Moderate

Potential Impacts

Very disruptive to ecosystem

Applicable Sectors

Forest [FAR1]

Forest

Forested watershed

Forest Carbon Management

Recreation

Non-Forested Wetlands

Wildlife Management

Grassland

Fire Management

Great Lakes Coastal Ecosystems