By Andi Anderson
Michigan State University researcher Jeremy Johnson has received a $500,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to study assisted tree migration as a tool to protect Michigan’s forests from climate change.
Johnson, an assistant professor in forest genetics, leads the project through MSU’s Michigan Cooperative Tree Improvement Program (MichCoTIP).
The program has previously improved species like red pine and jack pine. As Michigan’s key tree species face increasing temperature and unpredictable rainfall, the project aims to find which trees are best suited for future conditions.
Assisted migration involves planting trees in areas where they may be better adapted to future climates. Johnson and his team will use a common garden model—growing several species together under the same conditions—across nine test sites in Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.
The species chosen include six conifers and American Chestnut, with 50 families of each species planted across three soil types: xeric (dry), dry mesic, and mesic (moist and rich). Sites span three distinct climate zones to test for performance.
Researchers will monitor tree height, diameter, survival, and seasonal patterns in the first, third, and fifth years, and every five years thereafter, for about 20 years. They’ll also analyze genomic data to identify traits linked to resilience in changing environments.
“Our focus has shifted from growing big trees fast to finding trees that survive long term in changing conditions,” said Johnson. “We need trees that can withstand climate shifts, pests, and disease.”
This work, supported by MSU AgBioResearch and PERM, will guide the DNR on forest management strategies to sustain ecosystem health and the state’s $26 billion forest industry.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle