Great Appalachian Valley

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== Great Appalachian Valley ==

The Great Appalachian Valley, also known as the Great Valley, is a major landform feature of the eastern United States. It is a vast, continuous valley that stretches from the southern part of New York to the northern part of Alabama. The valley is a significant part of the Appalachian Mountains and is known for its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and economic importance.

Geography

The Great Appalachian Valley is bounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east and the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians to the west. It includes several smaller valleys and basins, such as the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia and West Virginia, the Cumberland Valley in Pennsylvania and Maryland, and the Tennessee Valley in Tennessee and Alabama.

Geology

The valley is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks, including limestone, shale, and sandstone. These rocks were formed during the Paleozoic Era and have been shaped by millions of years of erosion and tectonic activity. The region is also known for its karst topography, which includes features such as caves, sinkholes, and underground streams.

History

The Great Appalachian Valley has been a crucial corridor for human migration and settlement for thousands of years. Native American tribes, such as the Cherokee and Iroquois, used the valley for travel and trade. During the colonial period, European settlers followed the valley as they moved westward, leading to the development of important transportation routes like the Great Wagon Road.

Economy

The valley has a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Fertile soils and a favorable climate make it an important agricultural region, producing crops such as corn, soybeans, and tobacco. The valley is also home to numerous manufacturing industries, including textiles, machinery, and chemicals. Additionally, the scenic beauty and historical significance of the valley attract many tourists each year.

Ecology

The Great Appalachian Valley is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The region's forests are dominated by hardwood trees such as oak, hickory, and maple. Wildlife in the valley includes white-tailed deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. The valley's rivers and streams support diverse aquatic ecosystems, including several species of fish and amphibians.

Related Pages

• Appalachian Mountains
• Blue Ridge Mountains
• Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians
• Shenandoah Valley
• Cumberland Valley
• Tennessee Valley
• Great Wagon Road
• Cherokee
• Iroquois