Science and Practice of Creating Climate Adapted Oak Forests in Cities

Oak forests are threatened across their native range in North America because of urban development and climate-related pressures. They compose over half of trees in all forest land in the eastern United States and represent a “keystone” species that provides wildlife food and habitat. The challenge is that they are not regenerating, especially in cities, where barriers include invasive plants, increased herbivory, and acorn predation. In this forum, presenters explored current science and practices to protect white oaks and discussed ways to sustain this crucial species.