The shape of the coast and the processes that mold it change together as a complex system. There is constant feedback among the multiple components of the system, and when climate changes, all facets of the system change. Abrupt shifts to different states can also take place when certain tipping points are crossed. The coupling of rapid warming in the Arctic with melting sea ice is one example of positive feedback. Climate cha...

Aim Riparian ecosystems are regarded as vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Because of their reliance on passive dispersal to migrate from areas where conditions have become unfavourable, plants are particularly susceptible. On dryland river floodplains, the species diversity of herbaceous annuals is often high while that of structurally dominant woody perennials is low. We examined gene flow genetic structure and dis...

The Quabbin forest of central Massachusetts is the first barrier to contamination at the source of Boston's water supply. An interdisciplinary team is implementing an uneven-aged management strategy to create a watershed protection forest that both ensures water quality and enhances site productivity, biological diversity, and cultural resources. Adapting to changing conditions and learning from experience define this approach...