The Changing Nature of the Maine Woods

The Changing Nature of the Maine Woods is both a fascinating introduction to the forests of Maine and a detailed but accessible narrative of the dynamism of these ecosystems. This is natural history with a long view, starting with an overview of the state's geological history, the reemergence of the forest after glacial retreat, and the surprising changes right up to European arrival. The authors create a vivid picture of Maine forests just before the impact of Euro-Americans and trace the profound transformations since settlement. The book is ambitious in its geographic range, conveying a clear sense of how and why Maine forests differ across the length and breadth of the state, from the top of Mount Katahdin to the coast. Deploying groundbreaking research as well as engaging narratives, the authors assess key ecological forces such as climate change, insects and disease, nonnative organisms, natural disturbance, and changing land use to create a dramatic portrait of Maine forests--past, present, and future. This book both synthesizes the latest scientific discoveries regarding the changing forest and relates the findings to an educated lay and academic audience.

Andrew M. Barton is a professor of biology at the University of Maine at Farmington. Alan S. White is a professor of forest ecology at the University of Maine. Charles V. Cogbill is a historical ecologist in Vermont.