Bog Relict is moderately to mod.-high vulnerable to climate change. Changing hydrologic regimes could alter this system though Sphagnum and floating mats may buffer future changes. Sites may transition to native shrub-carr or marsh if tamarack is lost.

Submitted by dshannon on

Potential changes in precipitation patterns and groundwater infiltration could alter hydrologic regimes, though both floating mats and sites with abundant Sphagnum may buffer some of these potential future changes. Glossy buckthorn and non-native cat-tail are also major concerns and will benefit from projected increases in nutrient loading of groundwater and surface water as well as longer growing seasons. Tamarack, the major tree species of Bog Relict, is projected to decline, although as a pioneer species, it has the ability to regenerate rapidly when conditions are favorable. In addition, a high diversity of native shrubs may help maintain woody structure, even if some species decline. If tamarack is lost, sites may transition to native shrub-carr or marsh, depending on local water levels.