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Montane and Subalpine Grasslands

Ecoregion in AZ

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The Montane and Subalpine Grasslands ecoregion includes subalpine grasslands that occur above about 8500 feet in elevation, as well as some of the other larger montane grasslands of the Arizona/New Mexico Mountains, typically above 7500 feet. Precipitation averages about 23 to 35 inches per year. The larger areas tend to be relatively flat with poorly drained soils that are often deep Mollisols. Soil temperatures are frigid. Vegetation includes mixed sedge species, Arizona fescue, mountain muhly, pine dropseed, ponderosa pine, spruce, fir, and quaking aspen. The high elevation grasslands and forest edges provide important habitat for elk, deer, gophers, and voles, as well as numerous bird species. Some of these areas have been used for summer forage for cattle and sheep, especially since the late 1800’s, leading to erosion and changes in grass and forb communities. Exotic grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass have become more common.

— EPA

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