New report describes effects of climate change on U.S. forests

Wednesday, February 6, 2013 - This week the U.S. Forest Service released the Effects of Climatic Variability and Change on Forest Ecosystems report. The report warns that big changes are in store for the nation’s forests as global warming increases wildfires and insect infestations, and generates more frequent floods and droughts. The compilation of more than 1,000 scientific studies is part of the National Climate Assessment and will serve as a roadmap for managing national forests across the country in coming years. Along with more fires and insect infestations, forests will see more flooding, erosion and sediment going into streams, where it chokes fish habitat. More droughts will make wildfires, insect infestations, and the spread of invasive species even worse.