Title: Texas A&M Forest Service - Trees of Texas - Ecoregions - High Plains - High Plains
Headings: 
Texas Eco-Regions
High Plains back to Eco-Regions Map
Elevation
Precipitation
Topography
Soils
Vegetation Description
Impacts of Fire
Historical Information
Other

Content: Soils are alkaline throughout the area which limits the types of trees that can be grown successfully. Vegetation Description
The High Plains region is primarily a short-grass prairie, also known for its shrubby mesquite, juniper, cottonwood, and agricultural crops. It is predominantly grassland; juniper, cottonwood and mesquite are predominant tree species. The rim of the Palo Duro Canyon is considered part of the short grass prairie while the elevated moisture of the canyon floor supports a greater diversity of plants including some medium and tall grass species along with shrubs and trees. Common plant species include sideoats grama, big bluestem, Indian blanket, star thistle, fragrant sumac, mesquite, cottonwood, western soapberry and hackberry trees. Impacts of Fire
Early Native Americans understood the use of fire to improve the grass lands of the panhandle. Because of this periodic burning of the plains, wildlife (mainly buffalo), did not have to leave the area to search for more nutrient-rich lands. The fire ecosystem has always played a vital role in the panhandle. Fire kept invader species of trees at bay, while enriching the grass lands.