Why are hemlocks important?

Hemlocks are the most shade tolerant tree in North Carolina. They are a major driver of ecosystem processes due to the micro-climate they create under the shade of their massive branches. Along streams, hemlocks physically shape the waterways by holding stream banks in place, they keep the water temperature cool and consistent under their shade, and they make more water available to watersheds due to their slow rate of transpiration. In forests, they create specific habitats for hundreds of species of birds, mammals, plants, insects, and salamanders, many of which are rare and at risk. For more information, see our page The Importance of Hemlocks.