Central Hardwoods Oak Forest Ecosystem

  State Rank: S3

Forested areas in extreme southern Maine (York County), an area also known as the Central Hardwoods - Hemlock - White Pine zone. These forests are typified by so-called central hardwoods (black oak, white oak, shagbark hickory, bitternut hickory) and associated species, species common to our south but with a restricted distribution in Maine. The particular community or communities in any area will depend upon microclimate, aspect, slope position, soil type, etc. More exposed habitats may have woodlands dominated by oaks mixed with other species; more protected habitats will have continuous forest cover. This ecosystem is almost entirely limited to terrestrial communities, although it may include vernal pools and intermittent streams.

Natural Communities Associated with Central Hardwoods Oak Forest Ecosystem