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San Luis Alluvial Flats and Wetlands

Ecoregion in Rocky Mountains in CO, NM

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Although precipitation in the San Luis Alluvial Flats and Wetlands ecoregion is low, less than 8 to 10 inches, water availability from mountain runoff, a high water table, and associated springs and wetlands have made cropland irrigation possible. The ecoregion was once dominated by shadscale, saltbush and greasewood, but most of the native vegetation has been removed for agriculture. Irrigated cropland is common, with barley malt, potatoes, alfalfa, small grains, and hay, and smaller areas of vegetables such as spinach, head lettuce, and carrots. Generally, the soils of this region tend to be less alkaline than the soils of 22c. The increasing demand for water throughout this region is an ongoing issue, exacerbated by recent droughts. Increased salt accumulation in soils and groundwater depletion are problems associated with irrigation and the competing uses of available water.

— EPA

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