Mesic Conifers

A mesic conifer forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Mesic conifer forests are forests of evergreens (conifers) growing in areas that are not wet or dry, but are mainly moist. These areas include species such as white pine, hemlock, spruce, and fir. Very slow growth rates and the browsing of hemlock during winter by white-tailed deer, has limited natural regeneration. These factors have led to a 78% decline in mesic conifer forests in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Mesic conifer forests provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including rare species. Many wildlife species use mesic conifers for thermal protection during winter months, while migrating birds use the understory for nesting and the foraging of insects and seeds during the remainder of the year. Timber management, which was a major factor leading to the decline in mesic conifers, can also provide a means for their enhancement and restoration. Planting, protecting, and/or scarification can all be useful in the restoration process of mesic conifers. If you are interested in mesic conifer communities and enhancing wildlife habitat on your property, see the Upper Peninsula LIP page for more information.