In an era where climate change may generate hotter and drier conditions, tree health is a central concern of ecologists and forest managers. So how might a parasitic plant, like dwarf mistletoe, interact with the climatic conditions scientists project? A long-term data set and new study may provide the answer.

A new research project at the Andrews Forest aims to shed light on how changes in temperature and precipitation affect patterns of biodiversity. The Forests of Oregon Elevation Gradient (FOREG) is a network of large sample plots, established in 2019, within the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest.

Researchers at the Andrews Forest are studying how dwarf mistletoe may be affecting forest stands across the Pacific Northwest. The work requires getting up to where the mistletoe grows: high in the canopy of the trees. Get a canopy perspective through a new photo gallery at https://andrewsforest.oregonstate.edu/gallery/dwarf-mistletoe-survey-2019 

A new study at the Andrews Forest aims to document migration routes, locations, and migratory connectivity of Hermit Warbler populations.

A recent publication out of the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest LTER site illustrates the role that summer research experiences can play in contributing to LTER science and in engaging and mentoring students. The paper, “Drought impacts to trout and salamanders in cool, forested headwater ecosystems in the western Cascade Mountains” knits together research from a graduate student, two undergraduate students, and their OSU advisor, Assistant Professor Dana Warren.