Browse Map

Explore away

Explore Map Collection

Check out our basemaps

Print a Map Plus

Generate a high-quality PDF

Field Guide

Discover local flora, fauna, geology, and more

Local Flora & Fauna

Learn the ecology of your area

Local Geology

Learn the geologic formation at your feet

Get Started or Sign In

Welcome

Continue with Apple

Already have an account? Sign In

MAP

Topo

Measure

Topo

Ecoregions

Public Lands

...

BASEMAPS

Default Weather

Temperature

Smoke

...

WEATHER

Pleistocene Sand Dunes

Ecoregion on Great Plains in OK, KS

Print Map

Generate High-Quality PDF

Active, barren, or stabilized Pleistocene Sand Dunes are found along, and usually to the north of, most major rivers in the Central Great Plains (27); they lack well developed drainage networks and are physiographically and lithologically unlike the rest of Ecoregion 27. Deep, loose, permeable to rapidly permeable, sandy soils are characteristic. They widely support sand sagebrush – bluestem prairie, but where moisture is sufficient, oak savanna stabilizes dunes. Small interdune wetlands occur where the water table is high; they are important habitat for migrating shorebirds and waterfowl. Grazing is the most common land use, but irrigated cropland is found on soils that can retain sufficient moisture. Local overgrazing has occurred, promoting wind erosion. Springs are abundant, especially at the contact between sand and the underlying Permian redbeds. Ecoregion 27l consistently supports large populations of rodents, rabbits, and birds; it is one of the most important areas for game in Ecoregion 27. During prolonged cold and wet periods, the Pleistocene Sand Dunes (27l) ecoregion provides important shelter to wildlife.

— EPA

Taxonomy

Classified As

Ecoregion