Considerations for forest adaptation to climate change in sustainable production of wood/fiber/biomass and ecosystem services

Abstract

Climate change is expected to affect forests into the future. Although forests have an inherent resiliency that allows them to adapt to various disturbances, including past climate change, concerns are expressed that the rate of change of current and future climate may be more rapid than the ability of many forests to adapt. This paper examines the background of forest challenges to natural disturbances. Recent research on the ability of forests to adapt is cited, as are their general projections. This paper notes that most research suggests that while some areas are likely to experience dieback, other forests may flourish. Various tools available for humans to assist the adaptation process are discussed, with the management options for both timber-production and non-production forests discussed.

Parent Publication

• Forest conservation and management in the Anthropocene: Conference proceedings

Citation

Sedjo, Roger A.. 2014. Considerations for forest adaptation to climate change in sustainable production of wood/fiber/biomass and ecosystem services. In: Sample, V. Alaric; Bixler, R. Patrick, eds. Forest conservation and management in the Anthropocene: Conference proceedings. Proceedings. RMRS-P-71. Fort Collins, CO: US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 403-410.