Critical Loads of Atmospheric Nitrogen Deposition for Resource Protection within the Intermountain Region of the US Forest Service

E&S staff developed a comprehensive assessment of the expected risk to various biological endpoints within all National Forests and wilderness areas of the Intermountain Region. Risk was characterized with critical loads of atmospheric N deposition to protect against species levels of effects on aquatic biota, lichen communities, and individual tree species. Substantial portions of the Intermountain Region are exposed to levels of N deposition that exceed protective critical loads, which may be causing adverse impacts to biota. Working with regulators to reduce emissions and deposition of nitrogen will likely improve the health of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in the region. LINK TO REPORT