Reshaping Great Lakes pine forests: Adapting to drought and climate change

Abstract

The red pine forests of the western Great Lakes region aren't what they used to be. For a century, scientists and foresters have viewed these forests as structurally simple, single-cohort stands of red pine (Pinus resinosa) originating after stand-replacement fires. Forest managers emulated this perceived model in their management and have long grown even-aged red pine plantations. But after a century of this approach, along with fire suppression and a changing climate, these forests are showing signs of stress. The climate is warming, and forests are suffering from more frequent short-term droughts, potentially endangering the livelihoods of local communities dependent on a robust forest products industry, as well as local cultural values and many regional wildlife and plant species that depend on healthy, resilient forests.

Citation

USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station. 2020. Reshaping Great Lakes pine forests: Adapting to drought and climate change. Rooted in Research. Issue 2, October 2020. Madison, WI: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station. 3p.