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.

Near-stream areas are often reserved for grazing and other bovine activities.

The disjunct areas of Glacial Outwash differ from outwash areas on the Missouri Coteau (42a) in that they generally have a smoother topography. The soils are highly permeable with low water holding capacity. Areas of excessive soil permeability have a poor to fair potential for dryland crop production. Some areas are used for irrigated agriculture. The risk for blowing soil in droughty areas is reduced by retaining native range grasses like little bluestem, needleandthread, and green needlegrass.

Physiography

Area (square miles): 890
Elevation/Local Relief (feet): 1300-1550/0-50
Glaciated. Flat to slightly rolling. Ancient channel depressions, relict lakes.

Geology

Surficial Material and Bedrock
Sand and plane-bedded gravel, sediments of glacial meltwater rivers

Soil

Order (Great Groups)
Mollisols (Haploborolls, Natraquolls), Entisols (Udipsamments)
Common Soil Series
Brantford, Claire, Totten, Renshaw, Arvilla, Fordville, Sioux
Temperature/Moisture Regimes
Frigid/Udic

Climate

Precipitation - Mean annual (inches)
16-18
Frost Free - Mean annual (days)
110-130
Mean Temp. - Jan. min/max; July min/max, (°F)
-6/14;55/81

Potential Natural Vegetation

Little bluestem, needleandthread, blue grama, prairie junegrass. Elm, ash, burr oak in river bottoms.

Land Use and Land Cover

Cattle grazing on droughtiest soils. Tilable land produces wheat, oats, barley, rye and alfalfa.

Ecoregions of North Dakota and South Dakota

Ecoregions of
North Dakota
and
South Dakota