The vegetation in northern Canada is well adapted to current climate. The treeline extends from the Mackenzie Delta southeastward across the Keewatin. The Arctic Tundra zone will likely shrink in response to climate warming and the treeline will shift northward. The species composition of forests will probably change as will the habitat for wildlife. This may lead to a change in the distribution of animal species. In addition, insects now found in southern Canada would move into northern Canada. Parasites and pests would also move northward and this could have adverse effects on plants and wildlife. Under a warmer climate opportunities for agriculture may be presented in the central and upper Mackenzie Valley region.

Maxwell, B., 1997. Responding to global climate change in Canada's Arctic; Volume II of the Canada Country Study: Climate Impacts and Adaptation, Environmental Adaptation Research Group, Atmospheric Environment Service, Environment Canada, 82 p.

Hegeveld, H., 1995. Understanding atmospheric change. Environment Canada SOE Report No. 95-2, 68 p.