WER01 Elevated CO2 counteracts effects of water stress on woody rangeland-encroaching species at Konza Prairie

Woody plants are increasing prevalence and dominance in many rangelands around the world. The reason for their increase is various but two common drivers that have changed are an increase in CO2 concentrations and alteration to precipitation dynamics. We asked what the physiological growth dynamics of four juvenile woody plant species (Cornus drummondii, Rhus glabra, Gleditsia triacanthos and Juniperus osteosperma) when grown in elevated CO2 and chronically water stressed. We found that elevated CO2 counteracts much of the physiological effects of chronic water stress in the four different woody plant species measured. The alleviation of water stress from increased CO2 concentrations will result in juvenile woody plants continuing to expand and establish in North American rangelands. This information will aid land managers in making long-term management objectives for reducing woody plants in rangelands.