Forests in the Pacific Northwest are feeling the stresses of climate change. These changes include increasing variation in temperature, precipitation, and snowpack. These changes may outpace forest species’ ability to adapt, causing increased vulnerability to insects, disease, and wildfire. We know we need to work together to address these systemic issues.

Recent analyses indicate that western Oregon and Washington will likely experience warmer temperatures, higher winter precipitation, reduced snowpack, and less precipitation in summer months. In response to this need for connection and collaboration, Forest Adaptation Network (FAN) was established to share information on forest adaptation in the Northwest.

FAN members include land managers, forest ecologists, and restoration practitioners tasked with managing Pacific Northwest forests in both urban and rural communities. Members of the FAN share resources, discuss issues, and collaborate on projects to help our forests adapt to the expected impacts of climate change. 

The FAN was initially focused around the Puget Sound, but welcomes interested organizations from across the Pacific Northwest. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact Michael Yadrick (michael.yadrick@seattle.gov) or Rowan Braybrook (rowan@nnrg.org).