Research on belowground productivity and ecophysiology of balsam fir and sugar maple in New Brunswick

Abstract

We are investigating responses of ecosystem processes to climate and silvicultural practices to improve predictions of climate change impacts and to assess opportunities for adapting to impending changes. This involves studies of fine- and coarse-root dynamics, the distribution of net primary production between aboveground and belowground components of balsam fir (Abies balsamea [L.] Mill.) and sugar maple (Acer saccharum [Marsh.]) and photosynthetic capacity of balsam fir during winter and spring. Ongoing studies are described.