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Dense Clay Prairie

Ecoregion on Great Plains in SD, MT

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The rolling Dense Clay Prairie is characterized by heavy, erosion-prone, mesic soils derived from the Cretaceous Pierre Formation. Mesic soils are rare in Montana and contrast with the frigid soils that occur farther north in the Northwestern Great Plains (43). Grazing is the major land use and sheep are common. The vegetative cover is sparse and even riparian woodland is absent from the draws and stream corridors. Careful management is required to avoid erosion and blowing soil. Ecoregion 43k extends into South Dakota.

— EPA

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