Research Branch Staff Publications

Adaptation to climate change in forestry.

Citation:

Spittlehouse, D.L. 2005. Adaptation to climate change in forestry. Proceedings of the Species at Risk 2004 Pathways to Recovery Conference, March 2–6, 2004, Victoria, BC, T.D. Hooper (ed.), Species at Risk 2004 Pathways to Recovery Conference Organizing Committee, Victoria, BC, 5 pp.

Abstract:

Climate change adaptation strategies for the forest management sector should be based on the application of vulnerability assessment or risk management concepts. A planning framework for facilitating adaptation in forestry must address biophysical and socio-economic impacts, and will include policy and institutional considerations. The framework requires us to analyze the situation and assess current and future vulnerabilities of forests to climate change. We can then develop risk management strategies that include actions needed now and in the future to aid responses to climate changes. Adaptation needs to reduce current vulnerability to climate change and speed recovery after disturbance in a changed climate. The adaptation plan should include monitoring of the state of the forest to detect change. An example of using this framework to adapt to changing forest productivity is presented. Many forest ecosystems and species will have to adapt autonomously because management can only influence the timing and direction of forest adaptation at selected locations. In general, society will have to adjust to however forests adapt.

Availability:

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Related Links:

• Species At Risk 2004 Conference Proceedings