The Upper Columbia Plateau is a diverse and fascinating region of eastern Washington just to the east of the Cascade Mountains. Forests of Douglas fir and ponderosa pine dot a landscape that is otherwise dominated by shrub-steppe vegetation, with various species of sagebrush and bunchgrasses. Other special habitats include sand dunes, thin-layered lithosols, alkali lake and vernal pools, talus slopes, and riparian areas. 

This is the hottest and driest region in Washington with an average of just 8 to 14 inches of rain a year. Both plants and animals have adapted in surprising and interesting ways to the harsh, near-desert conditions. Plants utilize waxy coating to go dormant in the hot summer and grow tiny hairs to deflect the drying wind. Animals hide out during the heat of the day and get the water they need from plants and other foods they eat. 

This map shows BLM Lands in the Spokane District, and areas in the Mid-Columbia River National Wildlife Refuge Complex, managed by the US Fish & Wildlife Service.

The Pacific Northwest Recreation Map Series is jointly created by the Bureau of Land Management and US Forest Service. They provide surface land status and key recreation features like roads, campgrounds, and day use areas on federal lands (including National Forests, National Parks, US Fish & Wildlife Service lands, and more).

2015, printed on durable paper. $19.99.

This map is suitable for WA Game Management Units 388
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