M331Af Yellowstone Volcanic Plateau

Landscape Characteristics:

High elevation mountain plateau formed in rhyolite flows and tuff. Some surficial deposits of alluvium, glacial till, and landslide deposits also occur. Elevations range from 7500 to 9200 feet. Drainage density is moderate to high. There are numerous geysers, lakes, and wetlands.

Climate:

Mean annual precipitation ranges from 60 to 90 inches, about 65 percent falling as snow. The soil temperature and moisture regimes are cryic and udic.

Potential Vegetation:

Douglas-fir forest

Relationships of Dominant Map Unit Components:

Landform Geology Soil Taxa
Plateau Rhyolite Cryochrepts/Cryorthents

Disturbance and Land Use:

The primary natural disturbances are fire, insects, disease, and geothermal activity. Land use is predominantly recreational development and tourist activities.