Floodplain Forest System | Adaptation Workbook

Floodplain forests are occasionally or annual flooded and are dominated by deciduous species like silver maple, cottonwood, basswood, American elm, and ash species. They are tolerant of saturated soils, prolonged inundation, and erosion or deposition of sediment.

Climate Impact Statements

Climate change may alter flow regimes in rivers and streams across northern Minnesota.

Floodplain Forests are generally tolerant of floods and moderate droughts.

Most Floodplain Forest species are projected to increase or remain stable across northern Minnesota by the end of the century (silver maple, American elm, basswood, black willow, eastern cottonwood).

Insect pests like the emerald ash borer may have negative impacts on Floodplain Forests.

Deer herbivory on preferred species may hinder regeneration.

Climate change may benefit invasive species in Floodplain Forests.

Vulnerability

Low-Moderate

Adaptive Capacity

Moderate

Potential Impacts