Final Report: The Vulnerability of Forests to Climate Change and Wildfire in the Southwestern U.S.
Dates
Date Reported
2015
Citation
Final Project Report: The Vulnerability of Forests to Climate Change and Wildfire in the Southwestern U.S.: .
Summary
This project seeks to assess the vulnerability of forests in the southwestern U.S. to climate change and wildfire, in order to understand how these ecosystems might become altered as a result. Researchers will examine (a) how climate change will impact wildfires in the region, to better understand fire risk; (b) identify where and when vegetation will be most sensitive to changing climate and fire conditions; and (c) determine the ability of vegetation to adapt to changing conditions, given appropriate management. Researchers will then work closely with public land managers to develop strategic management plans that enable forests to adapt to the changes that are occurring.
Summary
This project seeks to assess the vulnerability of forests in the southwestern U.S. to climate change and wildfire, in order to understand how these ecosystems might become altered as a result. Researchers will examine (a) how climate change will impact wildfires in the region, to better understand fire risk; (b) identify where and when vegetation will be most sensitive to changing climate and fire conditions; and (c) determine the ability of vegetation to adapt to changing conditions, given appropriate management. Researchers will then work closely with public land managers to develop strategic management plans that enable forests to adapt to the changes that are occurring.