The partitioning of energy in various natural and disturbed stands in the Canadian boreal forest is documented. A comparison of the energy balance, évapotranspiration and surface heating indicates that conifer canopies absorb the greatest solar radiation and produce the most évapotranspiration. The recent clear-cuts produced the lowest evaporation and the greatest heating, with surface temperatures exceeding those at other sites by as much as 15°C at mid- day. Midday surface temperatures in clearings often exceeded the critical wilting point temperatures for spruce seedlings. Satellite-derived indices demonstrate varying degrees of water and energy management by forest stands as they regenerate after cutting. The implications of these findings for under- standing the prospects for regeneration of stands after a disturbance and for the sustainability of the boreal forest in conditions of changing climate are demonstrated