Regions of Alberta - The Boreal Forest
Trees and Water describe the Boreal Forest: Evergreen (or Coniferous) trees, and rivers, lakes, bogs, and Muskegs, to be more specific. The land varies in this region from low, flat lands and meadows to hilly areas and moraine s (hills formed by debris left by glaciers around 10,000 years ago!). There are boreal forests all around the northern part of the entire world. There are areas in the ground that look like large holes on the surface. This is because there are layers of solid rock called bedrock found deep under the soil, and iIn the bedrock, there are caves. These caves sometimes collapse and huge sinkholes appear. The land was once covered with salt water, in other words, it was an ocean. There is a large salt bed located in this region that is mined and used for table salt and road salt. It is also sold to be used in water softeners...something we know only too well in Calgary! Much of this region is covered by different types of wetlands. Muskegs are 0ne type of wetland, and covers most of the Boreal Forest. Muskegs are swamp water mixed with partly dead plants. Did you know? A Huge forest fire in 1919 killed many animals and destroyed much of Alberta's Boreal forest. The fire was so large that Smoke was felt as far away as London, England! Alberta's Boreal forest is a hugely diverse ecosystem. Within this ecosystem, there are over 40 different kinds of fish, as well as over 50 types of mammals, including elk, bison, Moose, Black Bear, and Beaver. The boreal forest is also home to many species of birds, including cranes, woodpeckers, Great Gray Owls, Martens, and Yellow Warblers.
The climate of Alberta's Boreal Forest can be described as having Longer winters and shorter, cooler summers than most regions in Alberta. Also, this region experiences More rain than other regions, making it a prime environment for wetlands. In some areas, the ground remains frozen all year long and is called permafrost, which does not allow for much vegetation to grow. Did you Know? The area around Peace River is unique because it receives moist, warm air from British Columbia, which means that crops such as alfalfa and clover can be grown there - that makes it the most northern area in North America where grain is grown.
The use of the boreal forest's land for industry has increased dramatically over the last 20 years, with heavy investment in Oil & Gas exploration, including major oilsands developments. Forestry is another major industry of the boreal forest, as well as farming. Over the years, a major question for all Albertans has been, "How can we protect the boreal forest and ensure it remains healthy, while allowing for growth in industry?" As is common with many questions in life, people have very different opinions. Sources: BlackGold School District Alberta Heritage Alberta Parks |