The significance of air pollution in sugar maple decline

Abstract

Sugar maple decline has been a prominent issue since the late 1970s, when large areas of Quebec and Ontario were affected by this phenomenon. Links have been established between decline and insect damage, airborne heavy metals and acidic pollutants, and drought. Research has also indicated that global warming and resulting climactic changes may also cause decline. The phenomenon can be partially alleviated by proper management of sugar hushes. Although sugar maple decline has been on the wane over recent years, it may pose a serious problem in the future.