Savanna Institute researchers are creating high-resolution maps for over two dozen woody perennial species across the Midwestern U.S. to determine their suitability under both current and expected future climates. This research will create consistent maps that are comparable across broad areas and species, which is essential for analyzing diverse agroforestry systems. Researchers will use the resulting tree crop suitability maps to examine regional patterns, identify the challenges and opportunities that may result from changes to the climate and determine how shifts in climate may impact carbon sequestration.
“We’re just getting started on this work, and it’s pretty exciting,” said Monika Shea, landscape ecologist at the Savanna Institute and the project’s Principal Investigator. “I’m excited to put this out because it’s really important information for people to have when they’re planning to plant trees and shrubs, especially trees that are going to be in the ground for a long time.”
The suitability maps will also be incorporated into online planning tools for farmers and landowners in collaboration with Canopy Farm Management and other project partners.