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Northern Sandstone Ridges

Ecoregion in Appalachian Mountains in VA, WV, MD, PA

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The Northern Sandstone Ridges ecoregion is characterized by high, steep, forested ridges with narrow crests. Crestal elevations range from about 1,000 feet to 4,300 feet (305-1,311 m) and local relief typically ranges from 500 to 1,500 feet (152-457 m). Most of the major ridges in Ecoregion 67 are found in Ecoregion 67c or in the Southern Sandstone Ridges (67h). High-gradient streams flow off the ridges into narrow valleys. Streams do not have as much buffering capacity as ecoregions 67d or 67i and are subject to acidification. The ridge-forming strata are composed of folded, interbedded Paleozoic sandstone and conglomerate. The Tuscarora Formation, Pocono Formation, Bald Eagle Formation, and Clinton Group predominate. Other less resistant rocks, such as shale and siltstone, may form the side slopes.

— EPA

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