Why are coast redwood and giant sequoia not where they are not?

Authors: William J. Libby
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2020, Issue N.Z.J.For. 65(3) 2020, pp 25-29, Nov 2020
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Models predicting future climates and other kinds of information are being developed to anticipate where these two species may fail, where they may continue to thrive, and where they may colonise, given changes in climate and other elements of the environment. Important elements of such predictions, among others, are: photoperiod; site qualities; changes in levels and yearly patterns of temperature, wind, fog and precipitation; the effects of these on interactions with other biota at each site; the effects of changes in fire frequency and intensity; the availability of seeds and seed vectors; and the effects of human activity. Examples are presented, with a focus on fire and human activity. Natural migration may need assistance and establishing groves far from the native ranges is advocated. When preparing this paper, it became increasingly clear that it is more of an Op-Ed than a comprehensive review, and is meant for people interested in and familiar with coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens (D. Don) Endl.) and giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum (Lindl.) Buchholz). Thus, five background references are provided, and they in turn provide detail on many of the topics covered. The final two references provide background on future speculative scenarios. Possible responses to such future scenarios are suggested.

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