Natural communities: friends and neighbors

Abstract

In light of concerns about the future of northern white-cedar, it is important to fully understand its current distribution and abundance, evaluate its ecological and social importance, and develop a strategy for conservation and sustainable use. In the previous chapter, we discussed the range of northern white-cedar and how that has changed and will continue to change over time. But knowing the extent of northern white-cedar's range and whether it is expanding or contracting isn’t enough to understand what is happening to the species. We must also know why these changes are occurring, and for that we must know the characteristics of the places where northern white-cedar lives and the assemblages of plants and animals there. This will help us understand the many connections between northern white-cedar trees and their communities, an important first step in devising a plan to ensure that they continue to thrive.

Citation

Storm, Gerald L.; Kenefic, Laura S. 2022. Natural communities: friends and neighbors. In: Northern white-cedar: The tree of life. East Lansing, MI: Michigan State University Press: 56-75. Chapter 4.