Land resources: Forest and arid lands [Chapter 3]

Abstract

This synthesis and assessment report builds on an extensive scientific literature and series of recent assessments of the historical and potential impacts of climate change and climate variability on managed and unmanaged ecosystems and their constituent biota and processes. It identifies changes in resource conditions that are now being observed and examines whether these changes can be attributed in whole or part to climate change. It also highlights changes in resource conditions that recent scientific studies suggest are most likely to occur in response to climate change, and when and where to look for these changes. As outlined in the Climate Change Science Program (CCSP) Synthesis and Assessment Product 4.3 (SAP 4.3) prospectus, this chapter will specifically address climate-related issues in forests and arid lands.

Parent Publication

• The effects of climate change on agriculture, land resources, water resources, and biodiversity in the United States

Citation

Ryan, M. G.; Archer, S. R.; Birdsey, R. A.; Dahm, C. N.; Heath, L. S.; Hicke, J. A.; Hollinger, D. Y.; Huxman, T. E.; Okin, G. S.; Oren, R.; Randerson, J. T.; Schlesinger, W. H. 200. Land resources: Forest and arid lands [Chapter 3]. In: Backlund, Peter; Janetos, Anthony; Schimel, David. 2008. The effects of climate change on agriculture, land resources, water resources, and biodiversity in the United States. Synthesis and Assessment Product 4.3. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Climate Change Science Program: 75-120.