Northern hardwoods | Adaptation Workbook

Northern hardwoods occur on mesic soils that provide consistent moisture and nutrients. Gap-sized disturbances are common, but stand-replacing events are very infrequent. Common species include sugar maple, red maple, American beech, American basswood, and eastern hemlock.

Climate Impact Statements

Northern hardwood forests may be susceptible to increased drought and moisture stress due to climate change.

Most dominant tree species in northern hardwood forests in Michigan are expected to tolerate a mild amount of warming, but many species could deline under a warmer, drier climate by the end of the century.

Some tree species in northern hardwood forests in Michigan are expected to deline by the end of the century (eastern hemlock, yellow birch, and northern white-cedar).

Northern hardwood forests may be impacted by a reduced and more variable snowpack, as well as more frequent freeze-thaw events.

Beech bark disease, white pine blister rust, and other diseases could become more active and virulent in Michigan's northern hardwood forests under a warmer climate.

Deer herbivory on preferred species may hinder regeneration.

High diversity may improve the adaptive capacity of northern hardwood forests.

Vulnerability

Moderate

Adaptive Capacity

Moderate-High