Biodiversity in Selected Natural Communities Related to Global Climate Change
Craig Anderson*, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, WI   
Bill Smith, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, WI 

Climate change is likely to cause significant ecological changes. Organisms are expected to 
respond through changes in range, abundance, and other parameters. In Wisconsin, 
peatlands occur primarily in the north and become progressively rarer to the south and 
west. Because peatlands contain so many species south of their normal range, some type 
of response to a changing climate might be expected. Goals of this five year study are to 
provide baseline data on the presence, abundance, and distribution of selected plant and 
animal species strongly associated with peatlands in WI. Because the intent is to repeat the 
study in 15-20 years, an important consideration is to develop a replicable methodology. 
Taxonomic groups addressed include small mammals, breeding passerine birds, selected 
terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, amphibians, other rare herps, and rare vascular plants. 
Potentially other groups (e.g., bryophytes) may be addressed a well. Two survey intensities 
are being used: intensive and extensive. Sampling is being conducted for each taxonomic 
group annually at thirteen reference sites distributed throughout the state. Photo points 
have also been established at these sites. Also, sampling is being conducted at up to 200 
randomly chosen sites for selected taxa. Standardized survey methods are being used. 
Sampling points and specimen observation and collection locations are being gathered with 
handheld GPS units and converted into GIS shape files. Data are being entered into 
appropriate databases. We are in our fourth and final field season. 
*Presenter