Climate — Mapping where trees survive, thrive

Climate change spurs heat waves, droughts, fires and infestations that threaten trees. Researchers at the Climate Change Science Institute at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and collaborators on a Forest Service-funded project are mapping the effect of projected climate change on tree populations. “We can plan ahead for forest-resources management in a changing climate,” said CCSI’s Jitendra Kumar. “Based on our fitness mapping of about 200 tree species, most are expected to see reduction in their suitable habitat under warming climates, but a handful will gain suitable habitat.”