Ephemeral Ponds are often defined based on the amphibians and invertebrates that use them, especially those for which ponds are their primary breeding habitat. Warmer temperatures, higher evapotranspiration rates and longer dry spells could lead to some ponds drying up earlier, which could adversely impact species that require inundation for larval development. Extreme precipitation events could also adversely impact species as well as increase the risk of invasion by non-native plants like reed canary grass. Ponds usually occur in forested landscapes, and risk of rutting from harvesting equipment could increase with shorter winters and fewer days of frozen ground conditions. On the positive side, ponds are widespread across the landscape and most of the plant and animal species that use them are relatively common with at least moderate dispersal ability. In addition, while many tree species associated with ponds could decline, other, better adapted tree species could take their place, with potentially minimal impact to obligate pond breeders, provided pond hydroperiods remain similar.