Problem 2.  Forest Ecosystem Responses to Global Change

Extensive burning of fossil fuels has increased atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases well beyond historical levels.  Such changes have accompanied increased global temperatures, suggesting a substantively altered world climate.  Although the implications of climate change for forests are not fully understood, they are very likely to be profound and pervasive.  Climate change can exacerbate threats from other sources, further confounding understanding and the search for solutions.  Innovative mitigation strategies based on sound scientific principles are needed to reduce the negative consequences of climate change. 

Problem 2a.  Better documentation and quantification of climate-induced changes in forests and forest resources are needed (experimentation and observation).

Problem 2b.  The ability is needed to project how climate change will impact forests and forest resources and interact with other threats (prediction).

Problem 2c.  Knowledge is needed to develop and implement strategies that will reduce negative climate change impacts on forests and forest resources (mitigation and adaptation).