Northern hardwood | Adaptation Workbook

Northern hardwood forests are widely distributed over a variety of sites with dry-mesic to wet-mesic conditions and nutrient-poor to rich soils. This forest type is generally found at low to moderate elevations. Species that are commonly dominant include sugar maple, yellow birch, American beech, eastern hemlock, and red spruce.

Climate Impact Statements

Several dominant tree species are at risk of decling by the end of the century, including red spruce and balsam fir.

Some tree species may be more likley to persist or increase through the end of the century , such as red maple.

Northern hardwood forests are widely distributed across a variety of sites, increasing adaptive capacity.

High levels of diversity may increase the ability of forests to adapt to climate change.

Insect pests and forest diseases could become more problematic in northern hardwood forests under a warmer climate.

Invasive species such as buckthorn, honeysuckle, and garlic mustard are expected to become more problematic under climate change.

Changes in herbivore populations may also have substantial effects on forest growth and composition in northern hardwood forests.

Vulnerability

Low-Moderate

Adaptive Capacity

Moderate-High