Oak | Adaptation Workbook

Stands are dominated by one or more oak species. Aspen, eastern white pine, and other species may be co-dominant in some stands.

Climate Impact Statements

Oak forests may be tolerant of increased moisture stress due to climate change.

Climate change effects on the wildfire regime or ability to use prescribed fire could benefit or disrupt oak forests.

Many oak species in are expected to increase in northern Wisconsin and western Upper Michigan by the end of the century (black, bur, northern red, and northern pin oaks).

Insect pests like forest tent caterpillar and spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) and diseases like oak wilt may become more active and damaging in oak forests under a warmer climate.

High diversity may improve the adaptive capacity of oak forests.

Deer herbivory on preferred species may hinder regeneration.

Vulnerability

Adaptive Capacity

Moderate-High

Potential Impacts

Mixed

Applicable Sectors

Forested watershed

Forest Carbon Management

Non-Forested Wetlands

Wildlife Management