Vulnerability of Common Urban Forest Species to Projected Climate Change: A Case Study of Mississauga, Ontario

Changes in temperature regimes, precipitation regimes, and extreme weather events as a result of climate change can cause physiological stress to urban tree species. This study examines the City of Mississaugaâ s urban forest species composition to explore the vulnerability of commonly planted native and non-native species under projected climate change scenarios. A vulnerability matrix was created to highlight the potential vulnerability of species to particular climate conditions and weather. Interviews with urban forest professionals were conducted to gather current perspectives on urban forest management in relation to climate change. Results show that all species analyzed are impacted by the cumulative effects of climate change, but proper urban forest management can mitigate some of those effects. This study addresses a gap in our knowledge of how urban forests may respond to future climate conditions in Mississauga and which species may fare better in projected conditions.M.Sc