Abstract

This lecture will provide a view of New England coastal forests in from pre-colonial contact to present. This will lead to discussion about the current dilemma facing land stewards in coastal New England: How to preserve native species and natural habitats threatened by climate change in ways that are innovative, but aligned with the values of informed stewardship.

Abstract

This talk will introduce the fundamental ideas on how adapting forests to changing climate conditions supports forest carbon sequestration and storage. Dr. Ontl will outline principles of carbon stocks and cycling within forest ecosystems and the impacts of management actions through the lens of climate risk and vulnerability, and various approaches for enhancing the carbon sequestration capacity of coastal forests in the northeastern U.S. This presentation will provide examples of how forest managers are integrating goals of climate adaptation with targets for increasing the carbon mitigation capacity of their forests, and provide a look ahead to opportunities in the region to support landowners and land trusts interested in forest carbon management.

Forest Carbon Menu of Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies and Approaches

Abstract

Following a brief overview of general forest climate adaptation strategies, this talk will present one experimental project begun in Scituate, Rhode Island, in 2015, when Mr. Riely helped manage 13,000 acres of forestland buffering the reservoirs for Rhode Island’s largest water utility. Site work included planting both native tree seedlings and non-native species projected to be adapted to future climate conditions, such as shortleaf pine and sweetgum. To assess deer impacts on one site, half the seedlings were planted inside a large exclosure fence. While foresters monitor early results, the project has provided significant educational value through engaging public audiences and a professional community of practice.

Abstract

Dr. Juliana Barrett, Principal Investigator for the grant that funded this speaker series, will describe the history of the Hoffman Preserve in Stonington, CT, and climate projections for 2050. Now underway, she presents a progress report on the careful selection of trees and shrubs that may withstand climate change in coastal N.E. Her work is guided by new ideas of assisted migration, or how to introduce tree species that can lead to more resilient forests. This project will involve the community in tree planting in a local forest, but more importantly, introduce people to new ideas about how to select and nurture the right tree for the right spot, and at the right time.

CT Sea Grant, Avalonia project looks to prepare forest for the future