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The Effects of Natural Disturbance in Puerto Rico: Forests, Infrastructure and Environmental Implications

Published by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, St. Joseph, Michigan www.asabe.org

Citation:  Soil Erosion Research Under a Changing Climate, January 8-13, 2023, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, USA  .(doi:10.13031/soil.23700)
Authors:   Grizelle González
Keywords:   Forest ecosystems, Tropics, Hurricane disturbance, Climate change, Luquillo Mountains, Puerto Rico, Caribbean.

Abstract

Functioning ecosystems respond to disturbance through natural processes of vegetation recovery, soil development, shifts in forest structure and composition, and adapting plant and animal populations. In the Anthropocene, a mix of natural and anthropogenic drivers influence our landscapes and the ecological services they provide. Long term studies of forest ecosystem function in the Luquillo Experimental Forest in Puerto Rico provide insights into the role of natural disturbances and ecosystem services, while recent high intensity hurricane disturbances provide insight into the interactions of downed trees, landslides, and critical infrastructure. Warming climate will increase the intensity of hurricanes, with greater wind and rain effects occurring from more powerful and slow-moving hurricanes. The combination of learning from recent events and understanding the long-term cycles of natural disturbance and forest recovery provides an opportunity to think about future environmental implications of disturbance. Experimental studies and monitoring of disturbance events can provide new information to manage forests for sustainable benefits in light of climate change.

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