Abstracts
Climate and Highland Ecosystems of Central Labrador: Understanding and Adapting to Change
John D. Jacobs1, T. Bell, L. Hermanutz, A. Simms, K. Lewis, M. Trindade, M. Anions, A. Munier, J. Bonnell, and J. Sutton
1Memorial University
jjacobs@mun.ca
Boreal forest and tundra ecosystems are highly responsive to a changing climate. Effects of anthropogenic climate warming on subarctic terrestrial systems are expected to be most obvious in highland areas near the present upper limit of tree growth. Biodiversity may suffer, with the loss of key tundra species, including animal populations. These changes will also affect the people who rely on boreal ecosystems for food and forest products. Working with provincial and federal agencies, and First Nations groups we are investigating climate and forest and tundra ecosystems at benchmark sites in Newfoundland and Labrador, including the Mealy Mountains/Akamiuapishku National Park study area and the Red Wine Mountains. The uplands are distinctive southerly outliers of the High Subarctic Tundra ecoregion in central Labrador. Despite their relatively low latitude and modest elevations, these highlands support characteristic arctic-alpine tundra plant and animal species, some of which are at the southern limits of their range, including species at risk.
Monitoring tree-line and tundra ecosystems and performing manipulative experiments over time and in relation to the local and regional climate will allow us to better understand and adapt to change in these sensitive areas. Paleoenvironmental data shed light on past periods of change. Downscaled GCM scenarios of future climate can be used with knowledge of regional and local conditions to assist land resource managers in planning for change.
2005-04-05 |
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