Massive Tree Losses Expected in Southern California

This is yet one more story of massive tree losses occurring from climate change. This time, Southern California. The cause – bugs and drought.

Up to 38% of the trees are expected to be lost – in just 3 counties. Tree loss means a lot of other losses too. Forest fires increase (due to dead and dying trees), critical shade habitat is lost, surface winds increase, soil erosion increases, hillside slump and fall and so on.

But Southern Californians would face many other costs.

“Catastrophic loss of our canopy would have consequences for human health and well-being, property values, air-conditioning savings, carbon storage, the removal of pollutants from the air we breathe, and wildlife habitat,” McPherson said.