Field Note: Learning from Early Application of a Transition Forest Climate Adaptation Planting Strategy Incorporating Assisted Migration in Southern New England

• DOI: 10.1007/s44392-025-00019-y
• Publication Date: 2025-04-28T12:26:00Z
• Authors: Christopher C. Riely; Robert W. MacMillan; Maria K. Janowiak; Richard H. Blodgett
• Keywords: Climate Change Adaptation

Abstract This field note presents an early example of a forest climate adaptation tree planting project incorporating assisted migration in southern New England which is valuable providing lessons that can inform future work this region and elsewhere. effort notable for moving forward through the implementation monitoring stages during period when many similar projects encountered barriers. The located on watershed protection forestland owned by Providence Water Supply Board, public utility Rhode Island. Using suite tools developed Climate Change Response Framework, managers carried out “transition” strategy 2015, seeking to improve regeneration area near state’s main drinking water reservoir. Seedlings both native species projected be adapted conditions were planted adjacent areas had experienced oak failure. Half seedlings each within deer exclosure fence half unfenced area. Annual has allowed comparison survival growth subset trees at these two sites 10 growing seasons. Deer herbivory believed most significant factor contributing differences rates between fenced areas. Both non-native have been able survive protected from browse, while are inconclusive after nearly decade. informal experimental provides case study illustrating some opportunities challenges associated with implementing non-research, operational-scale setting.