Butterfield, Bradley J.; Korte, Megan K.; Siegmund, Gregor\u2010Fausto; Schlaepfer, Daniel R.; Bradford, John B.<\/p>
Combining hydrothermal models of fast\u2010 and slow\u2010germinating seeds predicts restoration outcomes for a widely seeded dryland grass species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{butterfield2026,\r\ntitle = {Combining hydrothermal models of fast\u2010 and slow\u2010germinating seeds predicts restoration outcomes for a widely seeded dryland grass species},\r\nauthor = {Bradley J. Butterfield and Megan K. Korte and Gregor\u2010Fausto Siegmund and Daniel R. Schlaepfer and John B. Bradford},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70493},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-07-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Duniway, Michael C.; Knight, Anna C.; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Nauman, Travis; Stegner, Mary (Allison) A.; Mann, Rebecca K.; Zeller, Lauren A; Wilson, Savannah L.<\/p>State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{butterfield2026,\r\ntitle = {Combining hydrothermal models of fast\u2010 and slow\u2010germinating seeds predicts restoration outcomes for a widely seeded dryland grass species},\r\nauthor = {Bradley J. Butterfield and Megan K. Korte and Gregor\u2010Fausto Siegmund and Daniel R. Schlaepfer and John B. Bradford},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70493},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-07-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Duniway, Michael C.; Knight, Anna C.; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Nauman, Travis; Stegner, Mary (Allison) A.; Mann, Rebecca K.; Zeller, Lauren A; Wilson, Savannah L.<\/p>State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{butterfield2026,\r\ntitle = {Combining hydrothermal models of fast\u2010 and slow\u2010germinating seeds predicts restoration outcomes for a widely seeded dryland grass species},\r\nauthor = {Bradley J. Butterfield and Megan K. Korte and Gregor\u2010Fausto Siegmund and Daniel R. Schlaepfer and John B. Bradford},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70493},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-07-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Duniway, Michael C.; Knight, Anna C.; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Nauman, Travis; Stegner, Mary (Allison) A.; Mann, Rebecca K.; Zeller, Lauren A; Wilson, Savannah L.<\/p>State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
@article{butterfield2026,\r\ntitle = {Combining hydrothermal models of fast\u2010 and slow\u2010germinating seeds predicts restoration outcomes for a widely seeded dryland grass species},\r\nauthor = {Bradley J. Butterfield and Megan K. Korte and Gregor\u2010Fausto Siegmund and Daniel R. Schlaepfer and John B. Bradford},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70493},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-07-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Duniway, Michael C.; Knight, Anna C.; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Nauman, Travis; Stegner, Mary (Allison) A.; Mann, Rebecca K.; Zeller, Lauren A; Wilson, Savannah L.<\/p>State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70493<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Duniway, Michael C.; Knight, Anna C.; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Nauman, Travis; Stegner, Mary (Allison) A.; Mann, Rebecca K.; Zeller, Lauren A; Wilson, Savannah L.<\/p>State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Duniway, Michael C.; Knight, Anna C.; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Nauman, Travis; Stegner, Mary (Allison) A.; Mann, Rebecca K.; Zeller, Lauren A; Wilson, Savannah L.<\/p>State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Duniway, Michael C.; Knight, Anna C.; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Nauman, Travis; Stegner, Mary (Allison) A.; Mann, Rebecca K.; Zeller, Lauren A; Wilson, Savannah L.<\/p>
State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
@article{duniway2026,\r\ntitle = {State and Transition Classifications for Ecological Sites in the Upper Colorado River Basin, USA},\r\nauthor = {Michael C. Duniway and Anna C. Knight and Tara B. B. Bishop and Travis Nauman and Mary (Allison) A. Stegner and Rebecca K. Mann and Lauren A Zeller and Savannah L. Wilson},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p1qvvfqe},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-04-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p1qvvfqe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Stegner, M. Allison; Belnap, Jayne; Bishop, Tara B. B.; Knight, Anna C.; Nauman, Travis; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>
Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
In: <\/span>USGS DOI Tool Production Environment, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
@article{stegner2026c,\r\ntitle = {Exposure, sensitivity, and vulnerability to drivers of ecological change for Ecological Site Groups of southeastern Utah, USA},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jayne Belnap and Tara B. B. Bishop and Anna C. Knight and Travis Nauman and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\ndoi = {10.5066\/p13jrfe9},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-03-01},\r\njournal = {USGS DOI Tool Production Environment},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.5066\/p13jrfe9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Souther, Sara; Aslan, Clare E.; Grady, Kevin C.; Haubensak, Karen A.<\/p>
Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
In: <\/span>Restoration Ecology, <\/span>vol. 34, <\/span>no. 1, <\/span>pp. e70202, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 1061-2971, 1526-100X<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
@article{3JNIVHBI,\r\ntitle = {Evaluating the restoration and commercial seed growing potential of native plants that support pollinators},\r\nauthor = {Sara Souther and Clare E. Aslan and Kevin C. Grady and Karen A. Haubensak},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\ndoi = {10.1111\/rec.70202},\r\nissn = {1061-2971, 1526-100X},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Restoration Ecology},\r\nvolume = {34},\r\nnumber = {1},\r\npages = {e70202},\r\nabstract = {A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>A key limitation for dryland restoration is the availability of native seed sources adapted to arid conditions and however, many native forbs lack basic ecological data relevant to restoration seed production. To address this gap, we evaluated six native forb species collected across the Colorado Plateau for their potential to be developed into restoration materials. We established a common garden trial designed to replicate agricultural conditions using 100 individuals from four populations per species and measured survival, growth, reproduction, and pollinator visitation. Three species, Spreading fleabane ( Erigeron divergens ), Hoary aster ( Dieteria canescens ), and Hairy false goldenaster ( Heterotheca villosa ), exhibited high survival, prolific flower and seed production, and attracted diverse pollinator groups, including multiple native bee taxa. In contrast, Horsetail milkweed ( Asclepias subverticillata ) and Prairie flax ( Linum lewisii ) had low seed yields but attracted distinct floral visitor guilds. Sphaeralcea parvifolia exhibited poor propagation success. Despite variable performance among species and populations, the trial demonstrated that plantings comprising multiple species and populations supported a wide array of pollinators and extended the timing of floral resource availability. These results underscore the value of integrating functionally complementary species into restoration plantings to promote pollinator diversity and identify candidate species for native seed production.<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1111\/rec.70202<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Seeley, M. M.; Wiebe, B. C.; Asner, Gregory; Abraham, Andrew; Cooper, Hillary; Gehring, Catherine; Hultine, Kevin; Allan, Gerard; Whitham, T. G.; Goulden, T.; Doughty, C. E.<\/p>
Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
In: <\/span>Remote Sensing of Environment, <\/span>vol. 334, <\/span>pp. 115240, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
@article{CH9AZ6BF,\r\ntitle = {Why do classification models go wrong? The importance of adaptations and acclimations in driving landscape-level spectral variation in Fremont cottonwood},\r\nauthor = {M. M. Seeley and B. C. Wiebe and Gregory Asner and Andrew Abraham and Hillary Cooper and Catherine Gehring and Kevin Hultine and Gerard Allan and T. G. Whitham and T. Goulden and C. E. Doughty},\r\ndoi = {10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Remote Sensing of Environment},\r\nvolume = {334},\r\npages = {115240},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>doi:10.1016\/j.rse.2026.115240<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Wiebe, Benjamin C.; Moran, Madeline E.; Seeley, Megan M.; Senft, Rebecca; Schuessler, Alexandra; Thomson, Eleanor R.; Aparecido, Luiza M. T.; Cooper, Hillary F.; Gehring, Catherine A.; Hultine, Kevin R.; Koepke, Dan F.; Martin, Roberta E.; Posch, Bradley C.; Richardson, Andrew D.; Whitham, Thomas G.; Allan, Gerard J.; Asner, Gregory P.; Doughty, Christopher E.<\/p>
Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (Tcrit<\/sub> ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
In: <\/span>Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, <\/span>vol. 131, <\/span>no. 3, <\/span>pp. e2025JG009332, <\/span>2026<\/span>, ISSN: 2169-8953, 2169-8961<\/span>.<\/p>Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Abstract<\/a><\/span> | Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
@article{2GAV7FND,\r\ntitle = {Consistent Spectral Reflectance Signatures of Photosystem II Thermal Tolerance (T_{crit} ) in Contrasting Foundation Tree Species},\r\nauthor = {Benjamin C. Wiebe and Madeline E. Moran and Megan M. Seeley and Rebecca Senft and Alexandra Schuessler and Eleanor R. Thomson and Luiza M. T. Aparecido and Hillary F. Cooper and Catherine A. Gehring and Kevin R. Hultine and Dan F. Koepke and Roberta E. Martin and Bradley C. Posch and Andrew D. Richardson and Thomas G. Whitham and Gerard J. Allan and Gregory P. Asner and Christopher E. Doughty},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\ndoi = {10.1029\/2025JG009332},\r\nissn = {2169-8953, 2169-8961},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences},\r\nvolume = {131},\r\nnumber = {3},\r\npages = {e2025JG009332},\r\nabstract = {Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div>Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) is among the most thermally sensitive components of photosynthesis, and emerging evidence suggests that plants in diverse biomes face an increasing risk of PSII damage under future climate change. However, uncertainties in the distribution and drivers of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) limit our ability to predict thermal risk in plant communities across spatial scales. Here, we evaluate whether intraspecific variation in T crit corresponds to leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) to identify mechanisms associated with T crit in field conditions and assess the potential of its estimation using remote sensing platforms. We measured T crit using temperature response curves of minimal fluorescence ( F o ) along with corresponding leaf reflectance spectra in two foundation tree species: Populus fremontii (US Southwest) and Metrosideros polymorpha (Hawai'i). P. fremontii was sampled under both moderate (<40\u00b0C) and extreme (>45\u00b0C) heat. Consistent spectral signatures of T crit emerged across species and sampling conditions, with the strongest signatures in P. fremontii under extreme heat. In P. fremontii, spectra captured up to roughly half of T crit variation and allowed T crit estimation ( R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.30 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01.0\u00b0C) and classification of high\u2010versus low\u2010T crit (71%\u201377% accuracy). Across both species, T crit tended to increase with spectral indices reflecting higher chlorophyll content and lower carotenoids, nonphotochemical quenching, and leaf water content. These findings suggest that variation in PSII thermal tolerance is linked to fundamental biochemical properties of leaves, which are reflected in their optical traits. As climate extremes intensify, spectral screening and scaling of T crit via remote sensing may support improved conservation, management, and risk assessment in vulnerable ecosystems. , Plain Language Summary Plant communities are critical for the Earth system, but many face increasing pressures in a changing climate. One key risk is that plants may reach temperatures that damage their photosynthetic machinery. However, thermal tolerance varies widely between species and individuals, making it difficult to assess plant vulnerability at a scale. Here we test whether thermal tolerance can be predicted from how leaves reflect light at different wavelengths\u2014a method known as leaf spectroscopy that\u00a0captures key leaf traits and can be scaled using remote sensing platforms. We tested this approach in two\u00a0distinct tree species: Populus fremontii from the U.S. Southwest and Metrosideros polymorpha from Hawai'i.\u00a0Despite their differences, both showed similar spectral patterns linked to the temperature at which photosynthesis begins to break down. These signatures suggested that plants with higher thermal tolerance tend to have more chlorophyll and less leaf water and protective pigments than plants with lower tolerance. In P.\u00a0fremontii, leaf spectra explained up to approximately half of the variation in thermal tolerance and predicted high versus low tolerance with 70%\u201380% accuracy. These results help understand the mechanisms associated with thermal tolerance in the field, and may support landscape\u2010scale assessments of plant vulnerability to heat using remote sensing. , Key Points Leaf reflectance spectra (400\u20132,500\u00a0nm) show consistent signatures of PSII thermal tolerance (T crit ) in contrasting species and conditions In Populus fremontii , spectra predicted T crit (R 2 =\u00a00.24\u20130.3 and RMSE\u00a0<\u00a01\u00b0C) and classified high versus low T crit with 71%\u201377% accuracy Spectral indices suggest T crit is positively correlated with chlorophyll content and negatively correlated with water and carotenoid content<\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.1029\/2025JG009332<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Stegner, M. Allison; Argov, Jonathan; Ballenger, Liz A.; Hartwig, Kimberly; Martin, Laura; Wakefield, Gerald I.; Weissinger, Rebecca A.; Duniway, Michael C.<\/p>
Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey<\/a> Journal Article<\/span> <\/p>In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
In: <\/span>Scientific investigations report, <\/span>2026<\/span>.<\/p>Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Links<\/a><\/span> | BibTeX<\/a><\/span> | Tags: <\/span><\/p>@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
@article{stegner2026b,\r\ntitle = {Southeastern Utah Federal lands science needs survey},\r\nauthor = {M. Allison Stegner and Jonathan Argov and Liz A. Ballenger and Kimberly Hartwig and Laura Martin and Gerald I. Wakefield and Rebecca A. Weissinger and Michael C. Duniway},\r\nurl = {https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf},\r\ndoi = {10.3133\/sir20265027},\r\nyear = {2026},\r\ndate = {2026-01-01},\r\njournal = {Scientific investigations report},\r\nkeywords = {},\r\npubstate = {published},\r\ntppubtype = {article}\r\n}\r\n<\/pre><\/div>Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>
Close<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/i>https:\/\/pubs.usgs.gov\/sir\/2026\/5027\/sir20265027.pdf<\/a><\/li><\/i>doi:10.3133\/sir20265027<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>