Effects of Drought on Forests and Rangelands in the United States: A comprehensive science synthesis

Droughts have occurred frequently in the past and will continue to occur. Some places will see more severe or frequent droughts in the future, while others may not. The ongoing severe droughts in many parts of the US have been widely publicized, but there is a lack of information about how droughts of varying severities affect forests and rangelands. The need for guidance on how to effectively manage the nation’s grasslands and forests for resiliency and adaptation to drought requires advancements in the science and a better understanding of impacts. The USDA Forest Service, in partnership with Duke University, led a national scientific assessment that synthesizes the impacts of drought on forests and rangelands throughout the US. Written by more than 70 experts from federal agencies, universities, and national labs, this report evaluates appropriate ways to quantify and monitor drought; assesses consequences for forests and rangelands and their values; and identifies potential adaptation strategies. In this webinar, the assessment’s lead editor, Dr. Jim Vose, will present the key findings of the recently released report Effects of Drought on Forests and Rangelands in the United States: A comprehensive science synthesis.