At present rates they may double as early as 2050. Several New Hampshire tree species may decline while others, if warming is severe enough, may perish. Northern hardwoods, and the beautiful fall colors they produce, may migrate north 100 to 300 miles. Southern trees may replace northern hardwood, spruce, and fir forests. Potential summer drought conditions will cause trees to drop their leaves prematurely.
Sugar maples are extremely susceptible to mid-winter thaws and summer droughts.
Consequently, sugar maples, a source of brilliant fall leaf colors may sicken, decline and disappear, or their geographic distribution may migrate north. On average foliage visitors spend 16 percent more than non-foliage visitors. Economic loss to the tourism industry from foliage losses may occur.