Field Guide to Ecosites of West-Central Alberta

An ecological classification system was developed for west-central Alberta through the analysis of vegetation, soil, site, and forest productivity information. The hierarchical classification system has three levels - ecosite, ecosite phase and plant community type. Forty-four ecosites are described with further detail provided by subdivision into ecosite and ecosite phase and plant community type. A soil type classification system that describes 17 soil types was also developed. Management interpretations were made for drought, excess moisture, soil rutting hazard, soil compaction hazard, puddling hazard, soil erosion hazard, frost heave hazard, soil temperature limitations, vegetation competition, and windthrow hazard. Colour photos and drawings for 106 common plants of west-central Alberta are presented. An index listing common and scientific names of illustrated plants is included. Keys to ecological variables, definitions of soil horizon designations, and a glossary are also included.