Abstract
An immediate and observable effect of global warming in Norway is a transition in the seasonal vegetation cycles. Changes in the phenological phases are often the first indication of transition in ecosystem. A lengthening of the growing season, as observed in central and southern Norway, is likely to increase biomass production and accelerated tree growth across the region. Changed winter and spring conditions, due to more snow from increased winter precipitation as observed in the northern continental regions, will have an impact on the grazing resources for reindeer, and thereby a socio-economic impact on the Såmi people and culture. The project will combine satellite with ground registrations in order to identify the important climatic variables, this to model and predict changes in future phenological timing and primary production along the north-south, coastal-inland and altitude gradients. The project will analyse the consequences for the agro-forestry sector. main emphasis will be on the northern birch forest. The project will study the role of climate variability as a driving factor for the reindeer management, and its implications for the Såmi culture. Other effects the project will study are the increase in pollen allergies in Norway, and changes in goose migration patterns.
Norway