"In this paper, Montana is divided into eight geographic subdivisions called "forest regions," based on distributions of tree and undergrowth species and the relationship of these patterns to climate and topography. The regions serve as a geographic reference for describing patterns of forest vegetation across the State. Data on the distributions of plant species and habitat types and forest zonation are presented for each region."

A land-classification system based upon potential natural vegetation is presented for the forests of Montana. It is based on an intensive 4-year study and reconnaissance sampling of about 1,500 stands. A hierarchical classification of forest sites was developed using the habitat type concept. A total of 9 climax series, 64 habitat types, and 37 additional phases of habitat types are defined. A diagnostic key is provided for field identification of the types based on indicator species used in development of the classification.

Excerpt from Forest Regions of Montana Both the (5) southwestern and (6) south-central forest regions have high base elevations and are without Pinus ponderosa. The former region's for ests are generally drier than the latter's and Often have sparse undergrowth. (7) Southeastern Montana differs from previously mentioned regions in not having prominent mountains. It has extensive Great Plains Pinus ponderosa forests. (8) Northeastern Montana is a Great Plains area having no forest, except for Populus deltoides groves along major streams. The regions may be useful as a biologically based stratification for for est research and forest management studies. About the Publisher Forgotten Books publishes hundreds of thousands of rare and classic books. Find more at www.forgottenbooks.com This book is a reproduction of an important historical work. Forgotten Books uses state-of-the-art technology to digitally reconstruct the work, preserving the original format whilst repairing imperfections present in the aged copy. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in our edition. We do, however, repair the vast majority of imperfections successfully; any imperfections that remain are intentionally left to preserve the state of such historical works.

Provides information on fire as an ecological factor for forest habitat types in western Montana. Identifies Fire Groups of habitat types based on fire's role in forest succession. Describes forest fuels and suggests considerations for fire management.