Geology, Ecology
Columbia Valley Sub-Region
This Sub-Region includes the narrow Columbia River Valley, where the Region's two largest natural lakes, COLUMBIA and WINDERMERE, are located. Mountains rise steeply on either side of this valley, restricting development to a relatively narrow band along its length. The gradient of the Columbia River along this valley is gentle, resulting in the creation of extensive marsh lands, intermingling channels, and shallow lakes which forms an important habitat for migratory waterfowl and wintering areas for big game species. Also located in this Sub-Region is the Upper Kootenay River Valley, draining the Rocky Mountains to the east. Because of its altitude, steep slope, and narrow width, this valley has not been settled.
The economy of the Columbia Valley Sub-Region is based primarily upon the recreation and tourism industry. Forestry and mining are also major components of the economic base. Mining is presently small but there are significant prospects for the future in this industry. The area also supports several agricultural operations.
Geology:
Upper Columbia River Valley is part of the Rocky Mountain Trench a feature
which can be seen from outer space.
Purcells Mtns to the east are an older range then the Rockies to the West.
Two plates come together in the Columbia Valley: North American Plate and
the Pacific plate - pressure from the pacific plate caused the rocky
mountains to form.
Ecology:
Once a grassland the Upper Columbia Valley now is dominated by the ingrowth
of Douglas fir forest...
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