Aspen Bibliography
Document Type
Contribution to Book
Editor
S. Navratil and P.B. Chapman
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Aspen Management for the 21st Century: Proceedings of a Symposium
Publisher
Forestry Canada, Northwest Region and Poplar Council of Canada
First Page
143
Last Page
152
Publication Date
1991
Abstract
In western Canada, aspen attains its best growth potential in the boreal zone under the present climatic conditions. The anticipated climate change within the next century, caused by anthropogenic actions, would result in a warmer climate and precipitation patterns similar to the present. Comparable conditions existed in western Canada during the mid-Holocene warm-dry period (about 6000 years ago), when grasslands and aspen parklands occurred far north of their present extent. The anticipated climate change would cause increased drought conditions in the south and a longer growing season in the north. Under such conditions aspen is expected to respond with generally reduced growth rates, higher mortality, and higher incidences of insect and disease infestations in the south. In the mid-range, aspen would benefit from the extended growing period with increased productivity. In the north, existing aspen stands would becomes more aggressive in expanding their range.
Recommended Citation
Zoltai, S. C.; Singh, T.; Apps, M. J. 1991. Aspen in a changing climate. S. Navratil and P.B. Chapman (editors). Aspen Management for the 21st Century: Proceedings of a Symposium. Forestry Canada, Northwest Region and Poplar Council of Canada, Edmonton, Alberta.143-152.