East Peak fire burn scar, Colorado
A false-color image from NASA's Landsat 8 satellite captured the extent of the East Peak fire burn scar in southern Colorado. The fire burned nearly 13,500 acres before being extinguished on June 25, 2013.
Forests
Articles tagged with Forests
Researchers discover human activity threatens Sumatran tiger population
Researchers found tigers in central Sumatra live at lower than expected densities due to high levels of human activity. The study suggests that legal protection and intensive management can reduce human disturbance and facilitate tiger recovery.
NASA sees West Fork complex fires, Colorado
The NASA Aqua satellite's MODIS instrument captured an image of the West Fork fire complex in June 2013. The fires were burning in rugged terrain with large beetle-killed spruce forests, prompting evacuations in nearby South Fork.
Threatened frogs palmed off as forests disappear
Malaysia's oil palm plantations are causing threatened forest frogs to disappear, paving the way for common species to move in. The study highlights the devastating impact of habitat loss on biodiversity, with amphibians being the most threatened vertebrates globally.
In the Northeast, forests with entirely native flora are not the norm
A new study across 24 states found two-thirds of forest inventory plots contain at least one non-native plant species. Non-native, or introduced, plants can become invasive and displace native species, degrading habitats and altering ecosystem functions.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalEnvironmental Monitoring and Assessment·DateApr 30, 2013
Soils in newly forested areas store substantial carbon that could help offset climate change
New research found that planting trees on non-forested lands significantly increases soil carbon levels. This effect is most pronounced after surface mining and industrial processes have been terminated, leading to doubling of soil carbon within two decades.
Study documents decimation of critically endangered forest elephant
The study reveals a severe decline in African forest elephant populations due to poaching and habitat loss. The findings highlight the urgent need for a coordinated global effort to protect this critically endangered species.
Logging debris gives newly planted Douglas-fir forests a leg-up
Retaining moderate levels of logging debris helps increase growth rate of Douglas-fir seedlings by inhibiting competing herbaceous vegetation and preserving soil water. This leads to increased early growth in seedlings, with higher growth rates observed at 80% debris cover without herbicide treatments.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateMar 11, 2013
Where the wild things go… when there's nowhere else
A Princeton University study reveals that endangered species, such as Sumatran orangutans and Javan leopards, are increasingly taking up residence in swamp forests in Africa and Asia. These areas often lack food sources and fresh water, yet provide a crucial habitat for these animals.
Tree die-off triggered by hotter temperatures
A recent study found that hotter temperatures triggered a widespread die-off of Colorado trembling aspen trees, with the drought from 2000-2003 exacerbating the damage. The researchers used oxygen isotope analysis to determine that summer temperatures were the key factor in drying out surface soil and stressing the trees' water-transpo...
Landsat senses a disturbance in the forest
A new computer program, LandTrendr, has successfully teased out subtle changes in forest ecosystems by analyzing vast amounts of scientific data. By comparing satellite images to ground data, scientists uncovered the cause of slow-moving declines and recoveries of trees in Pacific Northwest forests.
Bengali forests are fading away
The Sundarbans mangrove forest is disappearing at an alarming rate, resulting in loss of natural protection from tidal waves and cyclones. This will inevitably lead to species loss, including the endangered Bengal tiger.
Pics, shoots and leaves: Ecologists turn digital cameras into climate change tools
A team of ecologists has developed a method to calculate how much CO2 deciduous trees soak up using seasonal changes in forest colour captured in digital photographs. The results showed that digital cameras can be an important aid in monitoring forests and tracking climate change effects.
BOSS quasars unveil a new era in the expansion history of the universe
The BOSS survey maps quasars to study dark energy, revealing a new era of the universe's expansion history. By analyzing the Lyman-alpha forest, scientists can measure BAO and calibrate the rate of expansion.
New study shows effects of climate conditions on bark beetle outbreaks
A new study by the USDA Forest Service reveals that climate conditions significantly impact bark beetle outbreaks, with optimal temperatures ranging from 1-4 degrees Celsius. Lower cumulative precipitation in prior years and higher current year precipitation also increase the likelihood of outbreaks.
Western aspen trees commonly carry extra set of chromosomes
A new study found that over 60% of western aspen trees in Utah and Colorado are triploid, with this genetic anomaly causing altered physical traits such as sterility or reduced fertility. The researchers also discovered a correlation between triploidy rates and regional climate variation.
Sizing up biomass from space
Researchers developed a new randomization protocol to accurately estimate total biomass in forests. The GLAS approach shows promise in standardizing global forest biomass inventory and improving spatial and temporal coverage.
Strengthening fragile forests of carbon nanotubes for new MEMS applications
Researchers developed a new production process called carbon nanotube templated microfabrication (CNT-M) to create stronger microstructures for MEMS applications. By replacing air spaces with a filler material, they enhanced the durability of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes.
In blown-down forests, a story of survival
A 20-year study at Harvard Forest Long-Term Ecological Research site reveals that leaving storm-damaged trees intact allows native plants and wildlife to thrive. The forest recovers naturally, with original conditions recovering more readily than after salvage logging.
University of Tennessee collaborates in study: Dire drought ahead, may lead to massive tree death
A University of Tennessee study suggests recent droughts may be the new normal, posing significant threats to the nation's forests. The researchers found that the US has experienced several mega-droughts in the last 1,000 years, and projections indicate worsening drought and increased tree mortality by 2050.
Climate change cripples forests
Researchers found that warmer temperatures and increased atmospheric evaporative demand will lead to widespread tree mortality and changes in forest distributions. The study used a 'Forest Drought Stress Index' to estimate annual regional tree-growth variability with exceptional accuracy.
Climate change could cripple southwestern forests
The study reveals that southwestern forests face significant challenges due to climate change, including increased drought stress and mortality. The researchers developed a Forest Drought-Stress Index that shows a strong correlation with tree growth, death from drought, and area burned by forest fires.
Nunavut's mysterious ancient life could return by 2100
Scientists predict that climate change will rehabilitate the ecosystem of around 2.5 million years ago on Bylot Island in Nunavut, Canada. The island's fossilized forest is between 2.6 and 3 million years old, with wood samples preserved in peat and permafrost.
Forest mortality and climate change: The big picture
A new analysis examines the effects of widespread forest die-offs on ecosystem processes, species diversity, and human services such as water purification and real-estate property values. The study highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to understand the complex consequences of climate-driven forest mortality.
Tigers take the night shift to coexist with people
In Chitwan National Park, Nepal, tigers have shifted their nocturnal activity to coexist with people, indicating a potential middle ground for human and tiger survival. The study suggests that conservation efforts can consider both nature and humans, paving the way for sustainable solutions.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 2012
Lao announces dramatic shift in land policy, commits to expand rights of communities, ethnic groups
The Lao government announces a dramatic shift in its land policy, prioritizing local land management and granting significant rights to rural households. This move aims to address land disputes and alleviate poverty, following international best practices from countries like China and Nepal.
Spider version of Bigfoot emerges from caves in the Pacific Northwest
A team of scientists discovered a new spider family, Trogloraptoridae, in caves of the Pacific Northwest. The spider, Trogloraptor, is characterized by its elongate claws and ancient features, forcing a revision of spider evolution understanding.
Diseased trees new source of climate gas
Researchers at Yale University have discovered that diseased trees in forests can produce massive amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The estimated emission rate from an upland site is equivalent to burning 40 gallons of gasoline per hectare of forest per year.
Chronic 2000-04 drought, worst in 800 years, may be the 'new normal'
Scientists warn that chronic droughts like the 2000-04 event could become more frequent and severe, leading to ecosystem damage and reduced carbon sequestration. The region's ability to absorb carbon dioxide may decline by the end of the century, exacerbating global warming.
Georgia forests, 2011
A study by the USDA Forest Service Southern Research Station found that Georgia's forest land area remained stable over the past 50 years, while timber inventory more than doubled. The majority of commercial timberland is privately owned, with individual or family forests making up a significant portion.
ONR-funded research takes flight in Popular Science article
Researchers are developing small UAVs that can navigate complex environments, such as forests and urban settings, at high speeds. By studying birds' flight strategies and behavioral processes, scientists aim to create compact platforms with limited sensing that can safely move through challenging environments.
Washington's forests will lose stored carbon as area burned by wildfire increases
By 2040, parts of Washington State could lose up to a third of their carbon stores due to increasing wildfire risk. This would significantly impact the region's ability to act as carbon sinks and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalEcological Applications·DateJul 23, 2012
NASA Goddard scientist receives Presidential Early Career Award
Lola Fatoyinbo-Agueh, an environmental scientist at NASA Goddard, has been recognized for her exceptional achievement in merging scientific priorities with advanced technology to develop innovative remote-sensing instrumentation. Her research focused on mangrove forests, using data from multiple satellites and a remote sensing software...
Restoring streamside forests helps songbirds survive the winter in California's Central Valley
A new study reveals that restoring floodplain forests helps migratory songbirds survive the winter, providing vital habitat for birds from Alaska and Canada. The research also found that restored forests are equally preferred to existing older forests by some species, including Lincoln's and White-crowned Sparrows.
Global warming threat seen in fertile soil of northeastern US forests
A new study by UCI researchers found that heating soil in Wisconsin and North Carolina woodlands can increase carbon dioxide release into the atmosphere up to eight times. The study suggests that soils could accelerate global warming through a vicious cycle, where man-made warming releases carbon from soils to the atmosphere.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2012
Standing trees better than burning ones for carbon neutrality
A new study finds that preserving forests can curb climate change more effectively than harvesting wood as fuel. The research suggests that managing forests for maximal carbon storage can yield significant, predictable benefits within the coming century.
Spotlight on Sentinel-2
The upcoming Sentinel-2 mission will fill the gap in research and operations, providing frequent coverage and high-resolution imagery. This will enable the monitoring of land cover, forests, agriculture, and glaciers, leading to better management of the environment and understanding of climate change.
Dry heat increases bark beetle bite
A new study found that rising temperatures and reduced rainfall in European Alpine spruce forests led to more frequent and severe bark beetle attacks. The study suggests that sustainable forest management strategies are necessary to mitigate the impact of climate change on these ecosystems.
Syracuse University study finds autumn advantage for invasive plants in eastern United States
A Syracuse University study reveals that invasive plant leaves continue to function in the fall, producing food through photosynthesis, while native plants shut down earlier. This finding challenges conventional wisdom on forest ecosystems and suggests a strategy for invasive species' success.
Saving forests? Take a leaf from insurance industry's book
A group of environmental scientists suggest applying insurance policies and premiums to strengthen the REDD scheme, addressing leakage, permanence, and additionality issues. This new scheme, iREDD, aims to protect forests and promote biodiversity by ensuring both buyers and sellers are protected.
Impact of warming climate doesn't always translate to streamflow
A study of 35 headwater basins in the US and Canada found that warmer temperatures do not always lead to decreased streamflow rates. In fact, water flow decreases only at sites with winter snow and ice, while warmer and drier ecosystems show less impact.
Mid-Atlantic suburbs can expect an early spring thanks to the heat of the big city
A recent study found that urban heat islands cause trees to turn green earlier in the spring and stay green later into autumn in Mid-Atlantic suburbs. This results in an extended growing season, affecting forests and potentially increasing carbon dioxide uptake.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 9, 2012
Study shows earthworms to blame for decline of ovenbirds in northern Midwest forests
A recent study reveals a direct link between the presence of invasive European earthworms and reduced numbers of ovenbirds in mixed sugar maple and basswood forests. The worm's consumption of leaf litter leads to a decline in nesting sites, increased predation, and a shift in plant species composition.
Nowhere to hide: Study finds future of Sumatran tigers threatened by human disturbances
A new study found that Sumatran tigers are nearing extinction due to human activities such as forestry and agriculture. The study highlights the importance of preserving large contiguous forest blocks for tiger conservation.
Oldest fossilized forest revealed
A team of researchers has discovered an entire fossil forest in upstate New York, revealing the oldest known tree stumps and new insights into the evolution of forests. The 385-million-year-old Gilboa fossil forest contains hundreds of large tree stumps with preserved roots, offering a glimpse into the Earth's ancient ecosystems.
A look back suggests a sobering future of wildfire dangers in US west
A University of Oregon-led research team warns that climate change and fuel buildup may trigger a perfect storm of wildfires in the US West. The team reevaluates fire-management practices to address a fire deficit due to rising temperatures, droughts, and increased tree mortality.
Living on the edge: An innovative model of mangrove-hammock boundaries in Florida
Researchers develop computer model to describe forces maintaining mangrove-hammock boundary, indicating large salt pulses may cause mangroves to invade hardwood hammocks. The model predicts changes in vegetation and freshwater supply due to storm surges and sea level rise.
Fungi-filled forests are critical for endangered orchids
Researchers found that older forests with specific fungi are essential for orchid survival and recovery. The study suggests that planting new forests may not be enough to save endangered orchids without the right fungal conditions.
Acid rain poses a previously unrecognized threat to Great Lakes sugar maples
A new study reveals that acid rain's impact on Great Lakes sugar maples goes beyond soil acidification. Excess nitrogen from acid rain slows microbial decay of dead leaves, creating a physical barrier for seedlings. This mechanism is expected to worsen as nitrogen deposition increases by the end of the century.
The case of the dying aspens
New research by William Anderegg and colleagues reveals that carbon starvation is unlikely to be the primary cause of tree death during droughts. The study found significant losses of function in the trees' water-transportation systems, especially in the roots, resulting in a 70% loss of water conductivity.
SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2011
Carbon mitigation strategy uses wood for buildings first, bioenergy second
A new study finds that using sustainably managed forests and utilizing wood for long-lived products can remove existing carbon dioxide from the air. The strategy also suggests using wood wastes for biofuels to displace fossil fuels, resulting in up to a 100% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Deforestation causes cooling in Northern US, Canada
Researchers discovered a surprising link between deforestation and temperature changes, finding that areas north of 45 degrees latitude experience cooling effects due to increased albedo. However, this effect is not observed at lower latitudes, where deforestation may actually contribute to warming.
Yale study shows deforestation causes cooling
A Yale-led team found that deforestation in northern latitudes has a net cooling effect due to increased albedo from snow cover and reduced absorption of solar radiation. Temperatures decrease by an average of 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit north of Minnesota.
Trees adapt to poor levels of sunlight to effectively process carbon, study shows
Researchers found that trees can increase their carbon intake during cloudy conditions due to even light distribution among leaves. This process helps forests maintain high productivity despite reduced sunlight.
Report provides new analysis of carbon accounting, biomass use, and climate benefits
A recent report provides new ideas on the carbon and energy benefits of forests and forest products. Sustainably managed forests can store and substitute carbon, while forest biomass-based energy uses less stored carbon, reducing fossil fuel emissions.
Holm oaks will gain ground in northern forests due to climate change
A study projects an increase of up to 350% in Mediterranean forest formations like holm oak and juniper due to CO2 concentration increases. In contrast, cold-adapted species may shrink by 99%. The prediction could have significant impacts on biodiversity conservation.
Climate change causing massive movement of tree species across the West
A massive shift in tree species is underway across the Western United States due to climate change, with many native species declining or disappearing and opportunistic newcomers replacing them. The research identifies areas where forests will change composition, with some regions shifting into grasslands or deserts.
Forests not keeping pace with climate change
A new Duke University-led study reveals that more than half of eastern US tree species are not adapting to climate change as quickly or consistently as predicted. The research found that nearly 59% of the species examined showed signs of range contraction, while only 21% appeared to be shifting northward.
Managing future forests for water
Researchers used long-term data from Coweeta Hydrological Laboratory to examine the feasibility of managing forests for water supply. The analysis revealed significant increases in temperature and extreme wet and dry years, with conversion from hardwoods to pines decreasing streamflow.
SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalEcological Applications·DateSep 28, 2011
University of Arizona to study human-fire-climate interactions
Researchers will examine how humans have responded to changes in surrounding forests over multiple centuries, focusing on New Mexico's Jemez Mountains and the intersection of climate change, drought, and forest fires. The team aims to understand how humans can live sustainably within fire-adapted ecosystems.