Ecology of North and South Facing Slopes
Here's a bit of ecology to watch for the next time you're out hiking in the mountains -- why are there dense forests on one side of the trail and open grasslands on the other?
It's all about the sun. On slopes that face north, plants and trees receive less sun and more moisture. The snow settles into these forests and stays on the ground until late spring because the sun doesn't melt it. Short days, low sun angle, and the northerly direction keep the areas shaded and wet.
On the south-facing slope, the sun shines full force on the ground; in summer these slopes are downright hot! So the ground is dry, creating better habitat for native grasses and sun-loving flowers.
Arrowleaf Balsamroot near Conconully Lake, WA. Sun-loving flower of south-facing slopes
Louise with photo by Brian. Text and photos copyright GoinMobyle, LLC 2009