Climate Change-Induced Drought Threatens Pacific Northwest Forests

Iconic Western Red Cedar Among Numerous Species Experiencing Die-Offs as Tree Growing Ranges Shift

Climate change-induced drought is causing the death of the Pacific Northwest's iconic western red cedar, also known as the 'Tree of Life'.
At least 15 native Pacific Northwest tree species have experienced growth declines and die-offs, 10 of which have been linked to drought and warming temperatures.
Scientists predict that as atmospheric warming continues, tree growing ranges will shift upslope in elevation and farther north, leading to more tree deaths.
The 'Firmageddon' event, a massive die-off of five fir species in Oregon, Washington and northern California, is believed to be driven by these range changes.
The Douglas fir, the region's leading commercial timber species, is also experiencing a large die-off, which is expected to move uphill as temperatures warm.