Cross Timbers

Cross Timbers

File:Cross Timbers.jpg

The Cross Timbers region in Texas

The Cross Timbers is a region located in the central United States, primarily in the states of Texas and Oklahoma. It is characterized by a unique ecosystem and is known for its diverse plant and animal life. The region is named after the dense woodlands of post oak and blackjack oak trees that dominate the landscape.

Geography

The Cross Timbers region stretches from central Texas, through Oklahoma, and into southern Kansas. It covers an area of approximately 30,000 square miles (77,700 square kilometers). The region is bounded by the Great Plains to the west and the Ozark Plateau to the east.

The landscape of the Cross Timbers is characterized by rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and shallow valleys. The soil is generally rocky and not very fertile, which has limited agricultural development in the region. However, the area is rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, and limestone.

Climate

The Cross Timbers region experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The average annual rainfall ranges from 30 to 40 inches (76 to 102 centimeters), with most precipitation occurring during the spring and summer months. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). Winters are generally mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.

Flora and Fauna

File:Post oak.jpg

Post oak tree in the Cross Timbers region

The Cross Timbers region is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. The dominant tree species in the area are post oak (Quercus stellata) and blackjack oak (Quercus marilandica). These trees are well-adapted to the region's rocky soil and can withstand drought conditions.

Other common tree species found in the Cross Timbers include eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), black hickory (Carya texana), and American elm (Ulmus americana). The understory is composed of various shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers, such as Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans) and purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea).

The region is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, bobcats, coyotes, and numerous bird species. The dense woodlands provide excellent habitat for these animals, offering shelter and food sources.

Human History

The Cross Timbers region has a rich human history dating back thousands of years. Native American tribes, such as the Wichita, Caddo, and Comanche, inhabited the area before European settlement. These tribes relied on the region's natural resources for sustenance and trade.

European settlers began to arrive in the Cross Timbers region in the early 19th century. The area became an important transportation corridor, with trails and later railroads connecting the eastern and western parts of the United States. The Chisholm Trail, a major cattle trail, passed through the region, contributing to its economic growth.

Today, the Cross Timbers region is primarily rural, with small towns and agricultural communities scattered throughout. The area attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers who appreciate its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.

Conservation

Cross Timbers State Park in Kansas

Efforts have been made to preserve and protect the unique ecosystem of the Cross Timbers region. Several state parks and nature preserves have been established to conserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area. These include Cross Timbers State Park in Kansas, Lake Texoma State Park in Oklahoma, and the LBJ National Grassland in Texas.

Conservation organizations and government agencies work together to manage and maintain the Cross Timbers region. They conduct research, monitor wildlife populations, and implement conservation strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem.

See also

• Great Plains
• Ozark Plateau
• Chisholm Trail

External links

• National Park Service - Cross Timbers Ecosystem
• Texas Parks and Wildlife - Cross Timbers and Prairies