Vegetative Zones - Steens Mountain VP, Oregon
Posted by: 
Volcanoguy
N 42° 39.956 W 118° 33.887
11T E 371767 N 4724905
Flora and Fauna Sign at Steens Mountain Viewpoint just off the highest point on the Steens Mountain Loop Road.
Waymark Code: WMAWPX
Location: Oregon, United States
Date Posted: 03/04/2011
Views: 4
Sign Name: Cloud Catcher
Sign Text: Like a sail in the wind, Steens Mountain captures passing weather. Clouds build up along the western slope, bringing cool rain, mist or winter snows. This capturing effect leaves Steens lush and cool, while the Alvord Basin remains extremely hot and dry. Changes in elevation and moisture create a staircase of vegetative zones, each with its own unique plant and animal species.
Sub-alpine Grassland Zone (9000’ - 9700’)
Despite harsh conditions, a variety of forbs and grasses are common, providing spectacular wildflower displays. Small burrowing mammals, birds of prey, summering deer and antelope are found within this zone.
Sub-alpine Meadow Zone (7000’ - 9000’)
Quaking Aspen Zone (6000’ - 8000’)
Sharing the drier portion of its zone with mountain mahogany, the quaking aspen community occupies moist areas. In addition to providing excellent habitat for deer, elk, and beaver, aspen brightens the mountain with brilliant yellows, oranges and reds. Listen for the whispering of aspen leaves quaking in the wind.
Western Juniper Zone (5000’ - 6000’)
Arid Sagebrush Zone (4200’ - 5500’)
Big and low sagebrush, bunchgrasses, and rabbitbrush provide a variety of food and cover for small mammals such as jackrabbits and reptiles like the Great Basin rattlesnake.