Data Supporting Reich et al 2022: Even modest climate change may lead to major transitions in boreal forests

Abstract

To test the uncertainty of the sensitivity of forests to near–term warming and associated precipitation we used a five–year open–air experiment in southern boreal forest located at two research sites in northern Minnesota. The experiment used juveniles of nine temperate and boreal tree species that grew under ambient and seasonally warmed (+1.6C and +3.1C above- and belowground) and rainfall reduced (~30% less rainfall) conditions. Each year we surveyed all trees for their survival and growth and measured in situ light-saturated net photosynthesis (Anet) and leaf diffusive conductance (gs).