Seedling Success Under Future Climate Scenarios

Abstract

Forest Ecology is the study of the spatial arrangement ant interaction of flora, fauna, and other biotic and abiotic processes within an ecosystem. This ecosystem entails a natural woodland consisting of plants, animals, and micro-organisms, functioning together with nonliving elements within the same area. Minnesota represents the transition zone between the northern hardwood and the southern coniferous border which stretches across the US and Canada. By studying the individual species reaction to anticipated changes as a result of climate change within a controlled environment, forest managers determining timber stands and habitat management areas may be better prepared for possible shifts in species and communities. With the project currently in full swing, it has become apparent that the treatments with increased temperature and decreased precipitation favor oak species, inferring that these species will shift northward. Additionally, there has been a lower survival rate for all other species within this regime.