Steep slopes

Cliffs, talus slopes, crags, bluffs, outcrops.

Remote cliffs, rocky crags, landslide scars, river bluffs and talus slopes contribute unmistakable character to the rugged landscapes of the Northern Appalachian - Acadian region. Unique biodiversity and ecosystems are associated with these features throughout the region, differing substantially with bedrock types. Vertical cliff faces are choice settings for peregrine falcons and golden eagles. Wiry, tenacious herbs like birds-eye primrose, slender cliff brake and fragrant cliff fern root in minute crevices. Accumulating talus at cliff bases creates a structure preferred by timber rattlesnake, rock vole and Gaspé shrew.

Key recommendations for steep slopes

Over 15,000 examples of these features occur in the region totaling almost a half a million acres. Based on our analysis we recommend that 27% of the half million acres be protected in 346 critical sites. This amounts to less than a 1 percent of the ecoregion but includes over 800 of the most critical occurrences. As of this year, 13% of this set is already in a GAP 1 or 2 reserve status.