Northwest Coast Cultural Area

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The Northwest Coast Environmental Area The Northwest Coast environmental area is a natural region located along the coastline of North America and is close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. It also extends from the Gulf of Alaska in the north to the Oregon-California boarder in the south. The strip of the coast is surrounded by distinctly large mountain ranges; and, with the relatively mild climate, moderate rain forests, and vast marine life, the Northwest Coast is considered a highly inhabited area that has grown a lot over the past few decades. The diversified environment of the Northwest Coast includes many traits which make this area a natural haven for people and animals to live. Some of the many traits of this area include inland rivers and lakes; Douglas fir, hemlock, spruce, cedar, and fir forests; many islands; mountains near the coast; deep fjords; and, a variety of beaches that are wide and narrow. The mountains near the coast are positioned in a way that block off most cold air coming from the interior. Rain forests of all types are used by the native peoples as sources of firewood and building materials, materials for rigging, clothing and bedding, canoes, and many tools. The forest's perimeters are inhabited by many species of animals such as deer, cougars, moose, bear, mountain goats and sheep; other animals include fox, coyotes, and beaver. While the forests are full of animal life, the sea and ocean along the coastline is heavily abundant of all types of water species that include whale, seal, sea lion, sea otter, many species of fish; these are all considered to be a subsistence for food production and trade. The complexity of the Northwest Coast makes this region a popular location for living. With it’s many traits such as the surrounding large mountain ranges, relatively mild climate, moderate rain

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