How can we manage forests under a changing climate?
Forests are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Not only do trees respond to changing temperature and precipitation patterns, but these changes will also impact other forest ecosystem processes, like insects and pathogens, nutrient and water cycling, and the frequency of disturbance events. Through management decisions, we can help bolster forest resilience to these impacts from climate change. The following resources are intended to guide you through the process of making informed management decisions that promote forest health, adaptability, and long-term resilience in the face of a changing climate.
Resources for Managing for Forest Resiliency:
For landowners and managers interested in understanding the threats of climate change and actions to take the support forest health and resilience, check out Increasing Forest Resiliency for and Uncertain Future
Resources for Managing Ash:
For managing ash under the threats of climate change and emerald ash borer, check out 10 Steps For Managing Ash for Foresters (with citations) and 10 Steps For Managing Ash for Landowners.
For a comprehensive guide to managing Vermont's forest in a changing climate, see FPR's Creating and Maintaining Resilient Forests in Vermont: Adapting Forests to Climate Change.