The Northern Glaciated Plains ecoregion is characterized by a flat to gently rolling landscape composed of glacial drift. The subhumid conditions foster a grassland transitional between the tall and shortgrass prairie. High concentrations of temporary and seasonal wetlands create favorable conditions for duck nesting and migration. Though the till soil is very fertile, agricultural success is subject to annual climatic fluctuations.

The prairie pothole regions of North and South Dakota (42 and 46) provide prime nesting and migratory habitat for North American waterfowl.

The Tewaukon Dead Ice Moraine is a continuation of the Prairie Coteau (46k) that extends below the level of the Prairie Coteau Escarpment (461). A high density of semipermanent wetlands provide feeding and nesting habitat for dabbling ducks (blue-winged teal and mallard), and diving ducks (redhead and canvasback). Most upland areas are used for cultivated crops.

Physiography

Area (square miles): 960
Elevation/Local Relief (feet): 1100-1380/5-75
Glaciated. Lower elevation extension of Prairie Coteau. Closely spaced hummocks, high wetland density.

Geology

Surficial Material and Bedrock
Wisconsinan glacial till over Cretaceous Pierre Shale

Soil

Order (Great Groups)
Mollisols (Argiborolls, haploborolls, Argiaquolls, Calciborolls)
Common Soil Series
Forman, Aastad, Buse, Parnell
Temperature/Moisture Regimes
Frigid/Udic

Climate

Precipitation - Mean annual (inches)
19-21
Frost Free - Mean annual (days)
120-140
Mean Temp. - Jan. min/max; July min/max, (°F)
-2/19;58/85

Potential Natural Vegetation

Western wheatgrass, green needlegrass, blue grama, needleandthread, sideoats grama.

Land Use and Land Cover

Mostly used for small grains and hay. Wetlands provide wildlife habitat.

Ecoregions of North Dakota and South Dakota

Ecoregions of
North Dakota
and
South Dakota