long, cold winters with a high snow cover and short, cool … · · 2006-05-05common. amounts of...

ESSFvc - 1

ESSFvc

ESSFvcVERY WET COLD

ENGELMANN SPRUCE — SUBALPINE FIR SUBZONE

AT IDF

ESSFMS ICH

ESSFvc

Distribution: The ESSFvc occurs above the ICH and below the ESSF

woodland subzone in the northern Monashee Mountains. It is most

extensive in the side drainages of the Columbia River between Revelstoke

and the Mica dam. West of there, it occurs in the Perry, Myoff, and

Ratchford drainage basins. It also occurs in the upper Seymour River, north

of the confl uence with the Ratchford River

Elevational Range: The elevational range of the ESSFvc is less variable

than many other biogeoclimatic subzones. On south aspects it generally

starts at 1400-1450m and on north aspects at 1350-1400 m. However, in

valleys receiving cold air drainage from nearby glaciers, the lower elevation

can drop to 1100-1200m. The upper elevational limit commonly occurs at

1650-1700 m on north aspects and 1700-1750m on south aspects.

ESSFvc - 2

ESSFvcESSFvc

Climate: Long, cold winters with a high snow cover and short, cool

summers characterize the ESSF zone. The ESSFvc falls within the

geographic area that receives the greatest mean annual precipitation in

the Southern Interior Forest Region. The mean annual precipitation is

estimated to be 2000-2400mm and maximum snow depths can reach 3-4

m. In general the Alpine zone above the ESSFvc is dominated by large

glaciers and snowfi elds which refl ects the high annual snowfall. Growing

season moisture defi cits are rare due to late snowmelt and frequent summer

storms. The short growing season is likely the most limiting climatic factor

for biological activity .

Forest Cover: Climax stands of Se, Bl and Hm dominate the landscape of

this subzone. Hm forms almost pure stands near the center of the subzone

but near the geographic margins it is reduced to scattered individuals in

the lower tree canopy and/or shrub layer. Pl rarely occurs and if present,

is confi ned to very dry, southern exposed ridges. Snow damage and/or

vegetation competition precludes successful establishment and long-term

survival of Pl. Hw, Cw, Pw and Fd rarely occur and are generally confi ned

to the transition zone between the ICH and ESSF. The mean stand age

exceeds 200 years. Disturbances are generally patchy and tree mortality is

attributed to insects, disease and windthrow. Late seral and climax stands

are typically 15-18 m tall.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Mature climax stands are dominated by Bl,

Hm and Se. The shrubby understory contains high covers of regenerating

Bl and Hm and is dominated by white-fl owered rhododendron, black

huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry and false azalea. The rich and diverse

herb layer includes oak fern, Sitka valerian, fi ve-leaved bramble, rosy

twistedstalk, mountain arnica and one-leaved foamfl ower. The patchy moss

layer is dominated by ragged-moss, herons’-bill moss, pipecleaner moss

and leafy liverworts. Soils are predominantly Humo-Ferric Podzols and

Ferro-Humic Podzols with Mor humus forms.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ICHwk1 or ICHvk1 occur

below the ESSFvc. The ESSFvcw occurs above the ESSFvc throughout

it’s distribution. The ESSFwc4 occurs south of the ESSFvc at similar

elevations, while the ESSFwc2 occurs to the west, north and east of the

ESSFvc at similar elevations.

ESSFvc - 3

ESSFvc

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ESSFvc

On zonal sites:

ESSFwc2

• lacks Hm

ESSFwc4

• lacks Hm

• false azalea is absent or only rarely observed

• Utah honeysuckle is generally present

ESSFvcw

• has more open and clumpy stand structure

• partridge-foot and mountain-heathers are commonly present

ICHwk1 and ICHvk1

• late succession stands are dominated by Hw and Cw,

• seral stands may contain Fd, Pw, Ep

• lacks white-fl owered rhododendron and Sitka valerian

72

Rocktr

ipe lic

hens —

Rock-m

oss

73

Rock-m

oss —

Cla

d lic

hens

02

BlH

m —

Huckle

berr

y —

Cla

d lic

hens

03

BlH

m —

Huckle

berr

y —

Hero

n’s

-bill

moss

04

BlH

m —

Rhododendro

n —

Hero

n’s

-bill

moss

01

BlH

m —

Rhododendro

n —

Oak f

ern

05

BlH

m —

Vale

rian —

Oak f

ern

06

BlH

m —

Lady fern

— S

pin

y w

ood fern

07

BlH

m —

Devil’

s c

lub —

Lady fern

08

BlH

m —

Arr

ow

-leaved g

roundsel —

Vale

rian

09

BlH

m —

Hors

eta

il

82

White m

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in-h

eath

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— P

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ridge-f

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92

Vale

rian —

Show

y s

edge

Wf0

1W

ate

r sedge —

Beaked s

edge

Wf0

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ate

r sedge —

Peat-

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Wf0

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ate

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Wf1

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Mars

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Wf1

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White m

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low

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Wm

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Beaked s

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Wate

r sedge

ESSFvc - 4

ESSFvc

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ESSFvc - 5

ESSFvc

Site Series Flowchart

Talus

Slope 72

Substrate of boulders & rocks. Sparse/absent tree,

shrub & herb layers. Sometimes false azalea or

Alaska saxifrage present. Lichen & moss layer often

extensive & includes crustose lichens, rocktripe and

clad lichens, rock-moss & heron’s-bill moss.

73Rock

Outcrop

Exposed bedrock. Sparse/absent tree shrub &

herb layers. Sometimes black huckleberry, shrubby

pesntemon or Alaska saxifrage present. Lichen &

moss layer often extensive & includes crustose lichens,

rocktripe and clad lichens, rock-moss & heron’s- bill

moss.

Dry

Forests

Very uncommon. Exposed bedrock. BlHm canopy

(>10%). Sparse shrub layer of black huckleberry. Sparse

herb layer with Alaska saxifrage or mountain arnica.

Extensive bryophyte & lichen layer; common species

include heron’s-bill moss & mountain leafy liverwort.

02

Common. Sparse/absent exposed bedrock.

Hm(BlSe) canopy. Sparse shrub layer with black

huckleberry & rhododendron. Sparse herb layer

usually dominated by fi ve-leaved bramble. Extensive

bryophyte & lichen layer; heron’s bill moss & leafy

liverworts usually very abundant.

03

04

Common. Hm(BlSe) canopy. Extensive shrub layer

with rhododendron & black huckleberry. Herb layer

more extensive than drier units; dominated by fi ve-

leaved bramble. Extensive bryophyte layer usually

dominated by heron’s-bill moss.

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

01BlHm(Se) canopy. Extensive shrub layer usually dominated

by rhododendron. Extensive herb layer dominated by

valerian & oak fern. Extensive bryophye layer.

05

BlHmSe canopy. Sparse shrub layer. Extensive herb layer

dominated by valerian & oak fern. Extensive bryophyte

layer usually dominated by ragged-moss. Sparse/

absent mountain leafy liverwort.

Hm(BlSe) canopy. Extensive shrub layer with

rhododendron & black huckleberry. Herb layer

dominated by fi ve-leaved bramble. Extensive bryophyte

layer usually dominated by heron’s-bill moss.

04

ESSFvc - 6

ESSFvc


92Meadow

Uncommon. Upper elevations. Sparse tree and

shrub layers. Dominated by showy sedge and

sitka valerian. Abundant arrow-leaved groundsel &

hellebore. Variable bryophyte layer.

82Heath

Uncommon. Restricted to cold air drainages or

late snowmelt areas. Sparse tree & shrub layers.

Abundant white mountain-heather and partridge

foot. Extensive bryophyte layer.

08

Common. BlSeHm canopy. Moderate shrub layer

a mix of black huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry &

rhododendron. Extensive herb layer including minor

amounts of arrow-leaved groundsel, horsetail &

Canby’s loveage. Extensive bryophyte layer.

09Uncommon. Water table near surface. BlSeHm canopy.

Sparse shrub layer. Extensive herb layer dominated by

horsetail. Extensive bryophyte layer.

Most common at lower elevations. BlSe canopy.

Extensive shrub layer dominated by devil’s club.

Extensive herb layer dominated by lady fern. Extensive

bryophyte layer.

07

Wet

Forests

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

Most common at lower elevations. HmBlSe canopy.

Sparse to moderate shrub layer with black huckleberry

& oval-leaved blueberry. Extensive herb layer

dominated by lady fern or spiny wood fern.

Extensive bryophyte layer with ragged-moss, heron’s-

bill moss & pipecleaner moss.

06

Most common at lower elevations. BlSe canopy.

Extensive shrub layer dominated by devil’s club.

Extensive herb layer dominated by lady fern. Extensive

bryophyte layer.

07

ESSFvc - 7ESSFvc - 7

ESSFvc

Site Unit FlowchartSite Unit Flowchart

FensOrganic soil; mostly sedges, grasses, reeds and brown mosses; some non-ericaceous shrubs.

Ww01 Pond-lilyCommon. Characterized by the presence pond-lily species. Often a monoculture. Mid to high elevation.

MarshesMineral soil; shallowly fl ooded; sedges, grasses and reeds.

Wf01 Water sedge — Beaked sedgeCommon. Dominated by water sedge and/or beaked sedge. Low species diversity. Low to high elevation.

Wf03 Water sedge — Peat-mossCommon. Dominated by water sedge. Narrow-leaved cotton-grass and marsh cinquefoil are common. Mid to high elevation.

Wf04 Barclay’s willow — Water sedge — Glow

mossCommon. Characterized by Barclay’s (or under-green) willow, bluejoint reedgrass and water sedge. High elevation.

Wf11 Tufted clubrush — Star mossCommon. Characterized by tufted clubrush and star moss. Permanently saturated. Mid to high elevation.

Wf12 Narrow-leaved cotton-grass — Marsh-

marigoldCommon. Dominated by narrow-leaved cotton-grass. Marsh- marigold is common. Continual seepage. Mid to high elevation.

Wf13 Narrow-leaved cotton-grass

— Peat mossCommon. Predominantly narrow-leaved cotton-grass and poor (or shore) sedge. Standing water present. Mid to high elevation.

Wf16 Black alpine sedge — White mountain

marsh-marigold — Glow mossCommon. Characterized by abundant black alpine sedge and various amounts of white mountain marsh-marigold. High elevation.

Shallow

WaterPermanently fl ooded; rooted, sub-merged and fl oating aquatic plants.

Wm01 Beaked sedge — Water sedgeCommon. Dominated by water sedge and/or beaked sedge. Low species diversity. Low to high elevation.


ESSFvc

ESSFvc - 9

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ESSFvc - 11

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Fb

Mb

(FG

)

Fb

(Cb

Mb

)

Fra

gm

enta

lV

ariable

Va

riable

Coars

e

Mediu

m

Coars

e

(Me

diu

m)

Mediu

m

(Co

ars

e)

Coars

e

(Me

diu

m)

Mediu

m

(Co

ars

e)

Mediu

m

(Co

ars

e)

Mediu

m

(Co

ars

e)

Me

diu

m

Fin

e

Mediu

m

(Co

ars

e)

Variable

Rocks &

bo

uld

ers

Bedro

ck

0-2

0 c

m

Bedro

ck

0-2

0 c

m

Bedro

ck

20

-10

0 c

m

S

eepage

Seepage

Wa

ter

table

10-4

0 c

m

Cold

air

dra

inage

So

me

seepage

MC

MC

MC

MC

MC

MC

MC

MC

Un

co

mm

on

Un

co

mm

on

Un

co

mm

on

Co

mm

on

Co

mm

on

Do

min

an

tC

om

mo

n

Co

mm

on

1C

om

mo

n1

Co

mm

on

Un

co

mm

on

Un

-

com

mon

2

Un

-

co

mm

on

3

1 M

ost com

mon a

t lo

wer

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vations.

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ost com

mon a

t hig

her

ele

vations.

2 C

old

air d

rain

age, la

te s

now

melt a

reas, m

ost com

mon a

t upper

ele

vations.


ESSFvc

72 Rocktripe lichens — Clad lichens Exposed talus slopes are uncommon.

They typically occur on steep upper,

middle and lower slopes. The tree,

shrub and herb layers are very sparse

or absent. Occasionally, individual

vascular plants such as false azalea

or Alaska saxifrage occur in small

pockets of humus or soil. The lichen

and moss layer is usually extensive.

Crustose lichens cover much of the

exposed rock in addition to patches

of rocktripe and clad lichens, rock-

moss and heron’s-bill moss.

73 Rock-moss — Clad lichens Non-forested rock outcrops are

uncommon. They occur on crests

and steep upper and middle slopes.

Soils are very shallow and much

of the substrate is composed of

exposed bedrock. The tree, shrub

and herb layers are very sparse

or absent. Occasionally, vascular

species including black huckleberry,

shrubby penstemon and Alaska

saxifrage may become established

on deeper pockets of humus and soil.

Crustose lichens typically dominate

the moss and lichen layer. Other

common species include rocktripe

lichens, rock-moss, clad lichens and

heron’s-bill moss.


ESSFvc

02 BlHm — Black huckleberry — Clad lichen This site series is uncommon and

represents forested rock outcrops.

These sites are usually found on

crests and steep upper and middle

slopes. Soils are very shallow and

much of the substrate is composed of

exposed bedrock. Bl and Hm often

occur in small patches or as scattered

individuals (>10% cover) where soils

are suffi ciently deep. The sparse

shrub layer is usually represented by

black huckleberry and, occasionally,

scattered stunted white-fl owered

rhododendron. The herb layer is very

sparse; common species include

Alaska saxifrage. The bryophyte

and lichen layer is usually extensive.

Heron’s-bill moss and mountain leafy

liverwort are common species.

03 BlHm — Huckleberry — Heron’s-bill moss This is a common site series. Like the

02 unit, the 03 unit typically occurs

on crests and steep upper slopes.

It differs in that exposed bedrock is

absent or much more limited in extent

compared to the 02 unit. Mountain

hemlock often dominates the open

forest canopy and regeneration

layers. Bl and Se are usually present

in minor amounts. The shrub layer

is similar to that of the 02 unit and

includes black huckleberry. White-

fl owered rhododendron is usually

more abundant than that found on

the 02 unit. The herb layer is sparse;

fi ve-leaved bramble is the most

common and abundant species.

Lichens are absent except for clad

lichens. Bryophytes often form an

extensive cover.


ESSFvc

04 BlHm — Rhododendron — Heron’s-bill moss The 04 site series is common and

occurs on gentle or steep middle and

upper slopes on deep soils. Both

the moderate tree and regeneration

layers are usually dominated by

mountain hemlock with a minor

component of Bl and Se. The shrub

layer differs from drier site series in

that it is much more extensive and

is dominated by a mixture of white-

fl owered rhododendron and black

huckleberry. Oval-leaved blueberry

and false azalea are sometimes

present in minor amounts. The

herb layer is typically much more

extensive than on drier units. Five-

leaved bramble is the most common

and abundant species. The extensive

bryophyte layer is usually dominated

by heron’s-bill moss.

01 BlHm — Rhododendron — Oak fern Zonal sites are found most often on

gentle middle slopes but may also occur

on level areas and steep upper slopes.

The forest canopy and regeneration

layer is usually dominated by Bl or Hm

with a minor component of Se. The

shrub layer is similar to that of the 04

unit but white-fl owered rhododendron

is usually more abundant than black


and false azalea are often present in

minor amounts. The herb layer differs

from the 04 unit in that oak fern and

Sitka valerian are much more abundant

than fi ve-leaved bramble and dominate

the herb layer. Other abundant species

include rosy twistedstalk, one-leaved

foamfl ower and Indian hellebore. The

bryophyte layer is similar to that of the

04 unit and is usually dominated by ragged-moss and heron’s-bill moss.


ESSFvc

05 BlHm — Valerian — Oak fernThis site series is common and

typically found on gentle middle and

lower slopes and level areas. The

forest canopy is composed of Bl,

Hm and Se of which any species

may be dominant. The regeneration

layer is dominated by Bl or Hm.

The shrub layer differs from the 01

in that shrubs are sparse. Black

huckleberry is the most common

species although sparse patches of

white-fl owered rhododendron, false

azalea, oval-leaved blueberry and

black gooseberry are often present.

The herb layer is very similar to that

of the 01 unit and is dominated by

oak fern and Sitka valerian. The

bryophyte layer is often extensive

and is usually dominated by ragged-

moss. Unlike drier units, mountain leafy liverwort is rarely present.

06 BlHm — Lady fern — Spiny wood fernThe 06 unit is common and occurs

most frequently at lower elevations

on gentle middle and lower slopes

and level areas. The forest canopy is

composed of Bl, Hm and Se of which

any species may be dominant. The

regeneration layer is dominated by

Bl or Hm. The shrub layer is sparse

to moderate and is dominated

by black huckleberry and oval-

leaved blueberry. Small amounts of

rhododendron, false azalea, black

gooseberry or devil’s club may be

present. The extensive herb layer

similar to the 01 and 05 units but lady

fern or spiny wood fern are abundant.

The bryophyte layer is dominated

by heron’s-bill moss, ragged-moss,

round-leaved leafy moss and

pipecleaner moss.


ESSFvc

07 BlHm — Devil’s club — Lady fern The 07 unit is most common at lower

elevations on gentle middle and lower

slopes where seepage is present. The

forest canopy and sparse regeneration

layer is dominated Bl and Se. The

shrub layer is moderate to extensive

and is dominated by the indicator

species, devil’s club. Thimbleberry,

false azalea, black huckleberry and

oval-leaved blueberry may also be

abundant. Rhododendron is rarely

present. The herb layer is similar to

the 06 unit and is dominated by lady

fern. Other common and abundant

species include spiny wood fern,

oak fern, Sitka valerian, one-leaved

foamfl ower and rosy twistedstalk.

The extensive moss layer is usually

dominated by ragged-moss and

round-leaved leafy moss.

08 BlHm — Arrow-leaved groundsel — Valerian The 08 unit is common and is found

on gentle middle, lower and toe slopes

and level areas. The moderate forest

canopy and sparse regeneration

layer is a mix of Bl, Se and Hm.

The moderate shrub layer is usually

dominated by black huckleberry and

oval-leaved blueberry. White-fl owered

rhododendron and black gooseberry

are present in small amounts. The

extensive herb layer contains a

large number of species including

those found on the 06 and 07 units.

Other common species present in

small amounts include arrow-leaved

groundsel, common horsetail and

Canby’s lovage. The bryophyte layer

is extensive and variable. The most

common and abundant species are

ragged-moss and round-leaved leafy moss.


ESSFvc

09 BlHm — Horsetail This site unit is uncommon and occurs

on level areas and depressions where

the water table is near the soil surface.

The forest canopy is dominated by

a mix of Bl, Se and Hm. Conifer

regeneration is sparse to absent.

The shrub layer is sparse; common

species may include black twinberry

and black gooseberry. Unlike other

site series the extensive herb layer

is dominated by common and/or

wood horsetails. Other common

species present in minor amounts

include those found in the 08 site

unit. The bryophyte layer is usually

extensive; common species include

ragged-moss and large-leaved leafy

moss. Peat-moss and green-tongue

liverwort may be abundant.

82 White mountain-heather — Partridge-foot This heath unit is uncommon and is

restricted to cold air drainages or late

snowmelt areas and is often at higher

elevations. It occurs most often on

mesic and subhygric steep or gentle

middle, lower and toe slopes and level

areas. Stunted Bl and Hm may be

present. The shrub layer is sparse.

The herb layer is dominated by white

mountain-heather and partridge-

foot. The bryophyte layer is usually

extensive and is often dominated by

heron’s-bill moss and mountain leafy

liverwort.


ESSFvc

92 Showy sedge — ValerianThe 92 meadow unit is uncommon

and is found most often at higher

elevations on middle slopes, gullies,

depressions and level areas. It is

wetter than the 82 heath unit. Trees

and shrubs are sparse to absent. The

herb layer is dominated by showy

sedge and Sitka valerian. Other

common species include arrow-

leaved groundsel, Indian hellebore,

mitrewort, violets, lady fern, oak

fern, rosy twistedstalk, wood-rush

and mountain arnica. The bryophyte

layer is variable.

ESSFvcw - 1

ESSFvcw

ESSFvcwVERY WET COLD

ENGELMANN SPRUCE — SUBALPINE FIR WOODLAND SUBZONE

Distribution: The ESSFvcw represents the southern range of the previ-

ously described ESSFvv Lloyd et al. (1990). It occupies an elevational

band between the ESSFvc and the ESSFvcp. Its geographic distribution is

confi ned by the Monashee Mountains. It extends north of the Trans-Canada

Highway from the Perry River to the Rogers Pass. From west to east, this

includes the Perry, Ratchford, and upper Seymour Rivers, side drainages

of the Columbia River between Revelstoke and the Mica dam, including;

Downie, Goldstream and Bigmouth Creeks.

Elevational Range: Generally, the lower elevation limit on north aspects

is 1650-1700 m and 1700-1750 m on south aspects. The upper elevation

is defi ned by the ESSF parkland boundary that occurs at 1900-1950 m on

north aspects and 1950-2000 m on south aspects.

Climate: The ESSF zone is characterized by long, cold winters with a deep

snowpack and short, cool summers. It is estimated that mean annual pre-

cipitation ranges from 2000 –2500 mm and maximum snow depths exceeds

3.5 m. Late snowmelt and a very short frost-free period contribute to a short

growing season. As a result, tree regeneration is slow to establish and often

widely dispersed or somewhat clumpy. We speculate that early fall snow

accumulations prevents deep ground freezing and contributes to the suc-

cessful establishment of Hm in this subzone.

Forest Cover: The majority of stands are dominated by Bl with vary-

ing amounts of Hm and Se. At the extreme limits of the subzone Hm is

restricted to isolated individual stems located in the lower tree layer or the

shrub layer. Se occurs more commonly on steep south aspects that are

subject to less intense summer frosts, faster snow melt and a slightly longer

growing season. Hm is most abundant on north aspects at the limits of it’s

range. Pl and Pa rarely occur and are generally restricted to drier exposed

ridges. Stands are generally more than 200 years old, have an open struc-

ture and average 10-13 meters in height. The wet climate and open stand

structure results in fi re return intervals that likely exceed 250–500 years.

Balsam bark beetle and root and stem rots ensure average stands ages are

less than 350 years.

ESSFvcw- 2

ESSFvcwESSFvcw

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Semi-open climax stands of Bl, Hm and Se

dominate much of the ESSFvcw landscape. Tree regeneration is primarily

Bl and to a lesser extent Hm. The shrub layer is variable in development

but commonly includes black huckleberry and white-fl owered rhododendron.

The moderately well developed herb layer includes Sitka valerian, mountain

arnica, wood-rush, mountain hairgrass and variable cover of partridge-foot

and mounain-heathers. The moss layer is well developed and dominated

by common and mountain leafy liverworts. Soils are Humo-Ferric Podzols

or Ferro-Humic Podzols with a shallow Mor humus form. The abundance of

heather species and partridge-foot increases signifi cantly in areas subject to

cold air drainage.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ESSFvcw occupies an eleva-

tional band between the ESSFvc and the ESSFvcp. It adjoins the ESSFwcw

at similar elevations.

ESSFvcw - 3

ESSFvcw

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ESSFvcw

On zonal sites:

ESSFvc and ESSFwc2

• mature stands are taller and less open

• oak fern, lady fern, rosy twistedstalk and false azalea are common

• lack partridge-foot and mountain-heathers

ESSFwcw

• lacks Hm

• occurs elevationally above the ESSFwc2, wc3, wc4

ESSFvcp

• has a clumpy discontinuous forest canopy

• herb rich meadows and heather dominated ecosystems are common,

widespread and not restricted to areas subject to cold air drainage

72

Rock-m

oss

73

Huckle

berr

y —

Rock-m

oss

02

BlH

m —

Rhododendro

n —

Hern

on’s

-bill

moss

03

BlH

m —

White m

ounta

in-h

eath

er

— P

art

ridge-f

oot

04

BlH

m —

Rhododendro

n —

Vale

rian

01

BlH

m —

Huckle

berr

y —

Vale

rian

82

White m

ounta

in-h

eath

er

— P

art

ridge-f

oot

92

Vale

rian —

Show

y s

edge

93

Vale

rian —

Leath

erleaf

saxifra

ge

94

Alp

ine s

edge

74

Ald

er

— L

ady f

ern

Wf0

4B

arc

lay’s

will

ow

— W

ate

r sedge —

Glo

w m

oss

Wf1

2N

arr

ow

-leaved c

otton-g

rass —

Mars

h-m

arigold

Wf1

5B

arc

lay’s

will

ow

— B

lack a

lpin

e s

edge

Wf1

6B

lack a

lpin

e s

edge —

White m

tn.

mars

h-m

arigold

— G

low

moss

0


very

po

or

A

po

or

rich

very

ric

hm

ediu

m

CE

DB

So

il N

utr

ien

t R

eg

ime

sub

mes

ic

sub

xeri

c2 3

very

xer

ic

xeri

c

mes

ic

sub

hyg

ric

hyg

ric

sub

hyd

ric

76541ESSFvcw- 4

ESSFvcw

Ed

ato

pic

Gri

d

WE

TL

AN

DS

02

72 73 0

3

01

8

2

94

93

92

04

74

WE

TL

AN

DS

ESSFvcw


ESSFvcw - 5

ESSFvcw

Boulder

Slope 72

Substrate of rocks & boulders. Sparse Bl.

Shrub and herb layers are sparse or absent.

Moss & lichen layer is often dominated by

crustose & foam lichens & rock-moss.

73Rock

Outcrop

Exposed bedrock. Sparse Bl (<10%). Sparse

shrub & herb layers. Abundant moss & lichen

layer includes rock-moss, clad lichens,

awned haircap moss & heron’s-bill moss.

Dry

Forests

03

Common. Middle & upper slopes & crests on

shallow to deep soils. Bl(Hm) canopy. Sparse

rhododendron. Very abundant white mountain-

heather & some partridge-foot. Heron’s-bill moss

& mountain leafy liverwort abundant.

02

Uncommon. Middle & upper slopes on shallow

soils. BlHm canopy. Abundant white-fl owered

rhododendron & black huckleberry. Sparse

herb layer. Heron’s-bill moss & mountain leafy

liverwort abundant.

04

Common. Steep & warm and gentle middle &

lower slopes. BlHm(Se) canopy. Abundant

rhododendron & black huckleberry.

Abundant valerian, arnica, mitrewort &

wood-rush. Heron’s-bill moss, mountain leafy

liverwort & ragged-moss may be abundant.

Slightly

Dry

to

Mesic

Forests

01

Common. Cool steep or gentle middle or

lower slopes. Bl(HmSe) canopy. Sparse

rhododendron. Abundant valerian, mountain

arnica & partridge-foot. Heron’s-bill moss,

mountain leafy liverwort & ragged-moss may

be abundant.

Common. Steep & warm and gentle middle &

lower slopes. BlHm(Se) canopy. Abundant

rhododendron & black huckleberry.

Abundant valerian, arnica, mitrewort & wood-

rush. Heron’s-bill moss, mountain leafy liverwort

& ragged-moss may be abundant.

04

ESSFvcw


ESSFvcw- 6

ESSFvcw

Meadows

94

Uncommon. Toe slopes, level areas &

depressions. Late snowmelt areas. Species-

poor. Black alpine sedge dominates the

vegetation. Partridge-foot common. Variable

bryophyte layer.

93

Uncommon. Toe slopes, gullies & level areas.

Late snowmelt areas. Herb layer dominated

by valerian. Abundant partridge-foot, mountain

hairgrass, arrow-leaved groundsel & leatherleaf

saxifrage. Sparse/absent showy sedge.

Sparse bryophyte layer.

92

Common. Steep or gentle middle & lower

slopes & level areas. Sparse black huckleberry.

Abundant valerian & showy sedge. Common

subalpine daisy, arrow-leaved groundsel, arnica

& wood-rush. Sparse bryophyte layer.

82

Common. Gentle slopes & level areas. Late

snowmelt areas. Scattered Bl (<10). Very

abundant white mountain-heather. Abundant

heron’s-bill moss & mountain leafy liverwort.

Heath

Avalanche

Track74

Uncommon. Steep middle & upper slopes.

Shrub-dominated. Dense Sitka alder

dominates the vegetation. Sparse to moderate

herb layer usually dominated by lady fern.

Sparse bryophyte layer.


ESSFvcw - 7ESSFvcw - 7

ESSFvcw






Wf15 Barclay’s willow — Black alpine sedgeUncommon. Dominated by Barcaly’s (or under-green) willow and black alpine sedge. High elevation.



ESSFvcw- 8ESSFvcw- 8

ESSFvcw

ESSFvcw - 9

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ESSFvcw- 10

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teri

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Site

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ESSFvcw - 11

ESSFvcw

93

72

73

02

04

03

01

82

92

94

Bo

uld

er1

Ro

ck

Ou

tcro

pF

ore

sts

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ad

ow

sH

ea

th

VX

(X)

VX

(X)

X

SX

SX

S

MM

(SM

S

X)

M

(SM

)

SM

M

M

SH

G

SH

G

(HG

)

SH

G

(HG

SH

D)

M

SH

G

(SM

)

MD

U

PC

R

UP

UP

M

D

UP

CR

UP

C

R

MD

MD

LW

MD

LW

LV

LW

M

D

LW

LV

TO

LV

GU

LV

D

P

(TO

)

UP

M

D

Ste

ep

Va

ria

ble

Va

ria

ble

Va

ria

ble

Va

ria

ble

Va

ria

ble

Va

ria

ble

Va

ria

ble

Le

ve

lL

eve

lS

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p

(Ge

ntle

)

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ria

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Ne

utr

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(Wa

rm)

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ria

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utr

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(Co

ol)

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(Co

ol)

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utr

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rm

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Va

ria

ble

Cb

RM

v C

v

(Mb

Cb

)

Mb

Cb

(Mv

Cv)

Cb

Mb

M

b

(Cb

)

Mb

Cb M

b

Fb

Fb

(Mb

Cb

)

Fb

(Lb

Mb

)

Cb

Fra

gm

en

tal

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ria

ble

Co

ars

e

Me

diu

m

Co

ars

e

Me

diu

m

Co

ars

e

Me

diu

m

Me

diu

m

(Co

ars

e)

Va

ria

ble

Me

diu

m

(Fin

e)

Me

diu

m

(Fin

e)

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e

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diu

m

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ars

e

(Fra

gm

en

tal)

Rocks &

bould

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Be

dro

ck

0-2

0 c

m

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ck

20-1

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m

So

me

bedro

ck

20-1

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Late

snow

melt

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me

seepage

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0-5

0 c

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snow

melt

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mon a

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vations a

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vations.


ESSFvcw

72 Rock-mossThe 72 unit is common and

represents boulder-dominated steep

middle and upper slopes. Trees are

absent except for patches of stunted

Bl. The shrub and herb layers are

sparse or absent. The most common

herbs are parsley fern, northern holly

fern and alpine bluegrass. The moss

and lichen layer is often extensive;

crustose lichens and small patches of

foam lichens cover much of the rocky

substrate. Rock-moss typically forms

extensive patches.

73 Huckleberry — Rock-mossThis is an uncommon unit that occurs

on rock outcrops that typically occur

on crests and upper slopes. Hm,

and to a lesser extent, Bl occur as

stunted patches on shallow soil.

The shrub layer is sparse and black

huckleberry is the most common and

abundant species. The herb layer is

also sparse; white mountain-heather

is the most common species. The

moss and lichen layer is usually

moderate to abundant; rock-moss,

clad and rocktripe lichens, awned

haircap moss and heron’s-bill moss

are the most common species.


ESSFvcw

02 BlHm — Rhododendron — Heron’s-bill mossThe 02 unit is common and occurs on

middle and upper slopes and crests

on shallow soils. The forest canopy

is very open and is composed of Bl

and Hm. Hm often dominates the

regeneration layer. The shrub layer

is typically dense and is dominated

by white-fl owered rhododendron

and black huckleberry. The herb

layer is very sparse; partridge-foot is

sometimes present in trace amounts.

The bryophyte and lichen layer is

often dominated by heron’s-bill moss.

Mountain leafy liverwort and clad

lichens are often present.

03 BlHm — White mountain-heather — Partridge-footThe 03 unit is common and occurs on

middle and upper slopes and crests on

shallow to deep soils. The tree layer is

very patchy and is usually represented

by dense clumps dominated by Bl

with a minor component of Hm. The

same species occur in the understory.

Black huckleberry and white-fl owered

rhododendron occupy the shrub layer

but unlike the 02 unit, rhododendron is

much less abundant. The herb layer

also differs in that white mountain-

heather is very abundant, particularly in

open areas. Partridge-foot is also more

common and abundant. Other herbs

may also be present in minor amounts

and include pink mountain-heather,

mitrewort, mountain hairgrass and

Sitka valerian. The extensive bryophyte

layer is dominated by heron’s-bill moss and mountain leafy liverwort.


ESSFvcw

04 BlHm — Rhododendron — ValerianThis is a common unit that occurs

most often on warm and neutral

middle and lower slopes. The forest

canopy is usually dominated by Bl and

Hm with a minor component of Se.

The sparse to moderate regeneration

layer is composed of Bl and, to a

lesser extent, Hm. The shrub layer

is similar to the 02 unit in that white-

fl owered rhododendron and, to a

lesser extent, black huckleberry are

very abundant. Unlike the 02 and

03 units, the moderate herb layer

is dominated by Sitka valerian,

mountain arnica, mitrewort and wood-

rush. Other common species include

Indian hellebore, mountain hairgrass

and one-leaved foamfl ower. The

bryophyte layer is similar to the 02

and 03 units except ragged-moss is often present.

01 BlHm — Huckleberry — ValerianThe zonal site series is found on a

neutral and cool middle and lower

slopes. It is typically dominated

by Bl and sometimes has a minor

component of Hm. The regeneration

layer is composed of Bl and Hm. The

shrub layer differs from the 04 unit

in that white-fl owered rhododendron

is very sparse; black huckleberry

is the dominant species. The

herb layer is similar to the 04 unit

and is usually dominated by Sitka

valerian, partridge-foot, mitrewort

and mountain arnica. Small patches

of white mountain-heather are often

present. The bryophyte layer is

similar to the 04 unit.


ESSFvcw

82 White mountain-heather — Partridge-footThis heath community is common and

is often found in late snowmelt areas

on gentle lower slopes and level

areas. It is very similar to the forested

03 unit in that white mountain-heather

is a very common and abundant

but differs in that trees and shrubs

are absent except for scattered

individuals of Bl, Hm and black

huckleberry. Partridge-foot is also

abundant. Other herbs which may

be present in trace amounts include

mountain hairgrass, wood-rush and

Indian hellebore. The extensive

bryophyte layer is dominated by


liverwort.

92 Valerian — Showy sedgeThe 92 unit is common and is often

found on gentle or steep middle

and lower slopes and level areas on

mesic and subhygric sites. Bl may be

present as stunted individuals. Black

huckleberry is the only common

shrub and occurs in sparse scattered

patches. The extensive herb layer is

typically dominated by Sitka valerian

and showy sedge. Other abundant

species include subalpine daisy,

arrow-leaved groundsel, mountain

arnica and wood-rush. Bryophytes

are largely absent.


ESSFvcw

93 Valerian — Leatherleaf saxifrageThese meadows are uncommon and

are most often found on toe slopes,

gullies and level areas adjacent to

streams. Scattered individuals of

Se, Bl, Hm or black huckleberry

may be present. The extensive herb

layer is usually dominated by Sitka

valerian. Other abundant species

include partridge-foot, mountain

hairgrass, arrow-leaved groundsel

and leatherleaf saxifrage. Species

typically found in minor amounts

include Indian hellebore, violets,

mitrewort, western pasque-fl ower and

white and pink mountain-heathers.

The sparse bryophyte layer may

include glow moss.

94 Alpine sedgeThis is an uncommon unit and occurs

on toe slopes, level areas and in

depressions in late snowmelt areas.

Trees and shrubs are largely absent.

Black alpine sedge is very abundant

and covers much of the substrate.

Partridge-foot is moderately abundant

but other herbaceous species are

usually absent. The bryophyte

layer is variable and mountain leafy

liverwort, hook-moss and glow moss

are the most common species.


ESSFvcw

74 Alder — Lady fernAvalanche tracks are uncommon.

They are typically found on middle

and upper steep slopes. The shrub

layer is dominated by a dense cover of

Sitka alder. The herb layer is sparse

to moderate and the most abundant

species is usually lady fern. Other

common species include mitrewort,

Sitka valerian, sweet-cicely, violets

and showy sedge. Bryophytes are

sparse to absent.


ESSFvcw

ESSFwc1 - 1

ESSFwc1

ESSFwc1COLUMBIA WET COLD

ENGELMANN SPRUCE — SUBALPINE FIR VARIANT

Distribution: The ESSFwc1 occurs on mid to upper slopes of the Monash-

ee and Selkirk Mountains, from the US border north to the Trans-Canada

Highway between Revelstoke and Rogers Pass. It primarily occurs west of

Kootenay Lake to the Shuswap River, east of Cherryville. It is part of the in-

terior “wetbelt” and lies above the ICH and below the ESSFwc4 in the Arrow

Lake and Slocan Lake drainage basins and all creeks draining into the west

side of Kootenay Lake north of Nelson.

Elevational Range: At drier geographic extremes, it lies above the

ICHmw2 at approximately 1450 m on north aspects and 1500m on south

aspects. Above the ICHwk1 and ICHvk1 the lower limit drops to 1350-1400

on north aspects and 1400-1450 on south aspects. The ESSFwc1 occupies

an elevation band of 75 to 150 m across most of it’s range. It generally

abuts the ESSFwc4 at about 1550-1600m on north aspects and 1600-1650

on south aspects.

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICHSBPSSBS

ESSFwc1

ESSFwc1 - 2

ESSFwc1ESSFwc1


snowpack and short, cool summers. There is no climate data for the ESS-

Fwc1, however, we estimate the mean annual precipitation is 800-1200mm

and maximum snow depths likely range from 1.5-2 m. Growing season

moisture defi cits are likely restricted to subxeric and xeric sites, particularly

those on steep southern exposures.

Forest Cover: This variant may be viewed as representing the transition

between the ICH and ESSF, particularly where the distance between the up-

per and lower elevation range of the ESSFwc1 is less than 75-100 meters.

Se and Bl dominate stands, with minor inclusions of Hw and Cw. At drier

climatic extremes of this variant, stands on southern exposures often con-

tain a signifi cant amount of Pl and occasionally Fd at lower elevations. Hw,

Cw and Bl dominate the regeneration layer. This variant contains some of

the most productive sites in the ESSF zone. The site index of Se commonly

exceeds 20m in 50 years. Fire return intervals vary from 140-250 years at

the drier extremes of the subzone to 250-500 years at the wet extremes.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Climax stands are dominated by Se and

Bl with Bl, Cw and Hw dominating the regeneration layers. Generally Cw

and Hw are over-topped by Se and Bl. The shrub layer is moderately well

developed and contains white-fl owered rhododendron, black huckleberry,

Utah honeysuckle and oval-leaved blueberry. The herb layer is typically

well developed and contains oak fern, fi ve-leaved bramble, queen’s cup

and one-leaved foamfl ower. The moss layer is dominated by red-stemmed

feather moss, knight’s plume, ragged-moss and pipecleaner moss. A com-

mon feature of this variant is the dominance of Sitka alder on road-sides

and recently disturbed areas. It is limited to a minor understory component

in climax stands. Soils are characteristically Humo-Ferric Podzols with a

5-10cm deep Mor humus form.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ESSFwc1 generally occurs

above the ICHmw2 and below the ESSFwc4. At the wetter extremes of the

variant it occurs above the ICHwk1 and ICHvk1 and below the ESSFvc and

ESSFwm. At the drier extremes, it can occur above the ICHmk1.

ESSFwc1 - 3

ESSFwc1

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ESSFwc1

On zonal sites:

ICHmw2 and ICHmk1• Se and Bl do not dominate stands

• white-fl owered rhododendron is absent

• Lw, Fd, Cw, and Ep are more abundant

• western yew, baldhip rose, wild sarsaparilla, prince’s pine, step moss

and electrifi ed cat’s tail moss are more common

ICHwk1 and ICHvk• Se and Bl do not dominate stands

• white-fl owered rhododendron absent

ESSFwc4 and ESSFvc• the moss layer has more leafy liverworts

• Cw and Hw are absent

• queen’s cup and false Solomon’s seal are sparse to absent

• white-fl owered rhododenron and Sitka valerian are more common

ESSFwm• false azalea present

• Cw and Hw absent

72

Re

d r

asp

be

rry —

Fe

ath

erm

oss

02

PlB

l —

Ro

ck-m

oss —

Cla

d lic

he

ns

03

PlB

l —

Hu

ckle

be

rry —

Ha

irca

p m

oss

04

Bl —

Rh

od

od

en

dro

n —

Fiv

e-le

ave

d b

ram

ble

01

Bl —

Rh

od

od

en

dro

n —

Oa

k f

ern

05

Bl —

Oa

k f

ern

— F

oa

mfl o

we

r

06

Bl —

La

dy f

ern

— S

pin

y w

oo

d f

ern

07

Bl —

De

vil’

s c

lub

— L

ad

y f

ern

08

Bl —

Ho

rse

tail

09

Bl —

Mo

un

tain

ha

irg

rass —

Le

ath

erle

af

sa

xifra

ge

10

Bl —

Blu

ejo

int

62

Arr

ow

-le

ave

d g

rou

nd

se

l —

Co

w p

ars

nip

Wf0

1W

ate

r se

dg

e —

Be

ake

d s

ed

ge

Wf0

3W

ate

r se

dg

e —

Pe

at-

mo

ss

Wf0

4B

arc

lay’s

will

ow

— W

ate

r se

dg

e —

Glo

w m

oss

Wf1

1T

uft

ed

clu

bru

sh

— S

tar

mo

ss

Wf1

2N

arr

ow

-le

ave

d c

ott

on

-gra

ss —

Ma

rsh

-ma

rig

old

Wf1

3N

arr

ow

-le

ave

d c

ott

on

-gra

ss —

Sh

ore

se

dg

e

Wm

01

Be

ake

d s

ed

ge

— W

ate

r se

dg

e

Ww

01

Po

nd

-lily

0


very

po

or

A

po

or

rich

very

ric

hm

ediu

m

CE

DB

So

il N

utr

ien

t R

eg

ime

sub

mes

ic

sub

xeri

c2 3

very

xer

ic

xeri

c

mes

ic

sub

hyg

ric

hyg

ric

sub

hyd

ric

76541ESSFwc1 - 4

ESSFwc1

Ed

ato

pic

Gri

d

04

09

01

08

06

07

6

20

5

03

02

72

10

WE

TL

AN

DS

ESSFwc1 - 5

ESSFwc1


Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

Se(Bl) canopy. Herb dominant understory with lady,

oak and spiny wood ferns and foamfl ower. Gentle,

mid to lower slopes. 06

Se(Bl) canopy. Abundant devil’s club (>10%). Herb

layer similar to 06 unit - lady fern & spiny wood fern

usually dominant. Variable moss layer.07

SeBl(HwCw) canopy. HwCw regen. Extensive

shrub layer dominated by rhododendron. Herb

layer dominated by fi ve-leaved bramble, oak fern &

foamfl ower. Variable moss layer.

01

SeBl(PlCwHw) canopy. Extensive shrub layer

dominated by rhododendron. Herb layer dominated

by fi ve-leaved bramble. Extensive moss layer - red-

stemmed feathermoss, ragged-moss & pipecleaner

moss.

04

SeBl canopy. SeBlHwCw regen. Sparse shrub layer

with minor rhododendron, black huckleberry, black

gooseberry & thimbleberry. Herb layer similar to 01

but fi ve-leaved bramble less abundant and oak fern

usually dominant. Variable moss layer.

05

Dry

Forests

03

Uncommon. Bl(PlSeCw) open canopy. Extensive shrub

layer dominated by falsebox, black huckleberry &

Utah honeysuckle. Herb layer variable. Moss & lichen

layer variable.

02

No data. Description based on other ESSF variants.

Exposed bedrock and shallow soils. Tree cover (>10%)

includes Pl, Bl & Se. Sparse shrub and herb layers.

Moss and lichen layer extensive - clad and pelt lichens,

rock-moss, haircap moss & heron’s bill moss.

Talus

Slope

Substrate of rocks and boulders. Trees sparse/

absent. Sometimes patches of red raspberry, false

azalea & black gooseberry present. Most herbs

absent - spotted saxifrage common. Moss and lichen

layer variable; clad & pelt lichens & red-stemmed

feathermoss common species.

72

ESSFwc1 - 6

ESSFwc1


Moist to

Wet

Forests

10Open BlSe canopy. Sparse shrub layer. Abundant

bluejoint reedgrass. Extensive moss layer including

bent-leaf moss and leafy moss.

Open Se(Bl) canopy. Sparse to moderate shrub

cover - black huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry &

rhododendron. Rich herb layer - mountain hairgrass,

leatherleaf saxifrage & Merten’s sedge. Peat-moss,

glow moss, bent-leaf moss & leafy moss common

species.

09

Open SeBl canopy. Sparse shrub layer. Abundant

horsetail (>10%). Variable moss layer - glow moss,

leafy moss & sometimes peat-moss present.. 08

Gentle toe slopes & level areas. Dominant species

include arrow-leaved groundsel, cow-parsnip and

stinging nettle dominant species. Shrubs and mosses

absent.

62Meadow


ESSFwc1 - 7

ESSFwc1











Shallow




Wm15 Bluejoint reedgrassCommon. Characterized by a high cover of bluejoint reedgrass. Mid to high elevation.


ESSFwc1 - 8

ESSFwc1

ESSFwc1 - 9

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ESSFwc1 - 10

ESSFwc1

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ESSFwc1 - 11

ESSFwc1

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ESSFwc1 - 12

ESSFwc1

72 Red raspberry — FeathermossThe 72 unit is very uncommon. It

occurs on talus slopes and is found

on steep, middle and upper slopes.

Trees are usually absent although

scattered individuals sometimes oc-

cur on pockets of humus and soil.

Red raspberry, false azalea and black

gooseberry sometimes form small

patches. Herbs are largely absent

although spotted saxifrage is often

present. The moss and lichen layer

is variable; clad and pelt lichens, red-

stemmed feathermoss and knight’s

plume are common species. Moss-

es may be particularly abundant on

shaded microsites.

02 PlBl — Rock-moss — Clad lichensNo data have been collected for this

site series. However, this unit does

exist and we have provided the fol-

lowing description based on observa-

tions of this plant association in other

ESSF variants. The 02 unit occurs

very infrequently on upper slopes

and crests where soils are very shal-

low and exposed bedrock is present.

Pl, Bl and Se occur as scattered in-

dividuals where soils are suffi ciently

deep. The shrub layer is very sparse

and typically consists of falsebox and

black huckleberry. The sparse herb

layer may include scattered patches

of bunchberry and one-sided winter-

green. The moss and lichen layer

is usually dominated by rock-moss

with minor amounts of clad and pelt

lichens, juniper haircap moss and heron’s-bill moss.

ESSFwc1 - 13

ESSFwc1

03 PlBl — Huckleberry — Haircap mossThe 03 unit occurs infrequently and is

largely restricted to steep and warm

or gentle upper and middle slopes on

deep soils. Bl typically dominates the

canopy with a minor component of

Pl, Se or Cw. Bl also dominates the

sparse regeneration layer. Shrubs

are moderately abundant and falsebox

and black huckleberry are the most

abundant species. Utah honeysuckle

and, occasionally, white-fl owered rho-

dodendron may be present in minor

amounts. The herb layer is variable in

cover; common species include arctic

lupine, mountain arnica and one-sided

wintergreen. The moss and lichen lay-

er is sparse to moderate and is most

often dominated by ragged-moss,

and heron’s-bill moss. Clad and pelt

lichens and juniper haircap moss are often present in minor amounts.

04 Bl — Rhododendron — Five-leaved brambleThis site series occurs primarily on

submesic sites on middle and upper

slopes and level areas. The canopy

is dominated by Bl and Se and minor

amounts of Pl, Cw, or Hw may be

present. The regeneration layer is

often dominated by Bl and Cw. The

extensive shrub layer differs from the

03 unit in that falsebox is much less

abundant and white-fl owered rho-

dodendron is the most common and

abundant species. The herb layer is

moderate to well-developed but spe-

cies poor in comparison to wetter site

series. Five-leaved bramble is the

dominant species. One-leaved foam-

fl ower, one-sided wintergreen and

queen’s cup may be present in minor

amounts. Red-stemmed feathermoss,

ragged-moss and pipecleaner moss often cover much of the forest fl oor.

ESSFwc1 - 14

ESSFwc1

01 Bl — Rhododendron — Oak fernThe 01 unit occurs most often on

steep and cool or gentle middle and

lower slopes and level areas. Bl and

Se dominate the forest canopy. Hw

and Cw may also be present the can-

opy and the regeneration layer with Bl

and Se. White-fl owered rhododendron


abundant shrubs. Utah honeysuckle

and falsebox are often present in mi-

nor amounts. Sitka alder, oval-leaved

blueberry and black gooseberry are

occasionally present. The herb rich

species layer includes fi ve-leaved

bramble, one-leaved foamfl ower and

oak fern. The moss layer is usu-

ally contains a mix of red-stemmed

feathermoss, ragged-moss, pipe-

cleaner moss and heron’s-bill moss.

05 Bl — Oak fern — Foamfl owerThe 05 unit occurs on gentle or steep

middle, lower and toe slopes. The

closed forest canopy is dominated by

Bl and Se. Cw is sometimes present

but it occurs more frequently in the

regeneration layer with Bl, Se and

Hw. The shrub layer is less exten-

sive than that of the 01 unit; white-

fl owered rhododendron and black

huckleberry are much less abundant.

Thimbleberry and black gooseberry

are often present in minor amounts.

The herb layer is similar to the 01 unit

but fi ve-leaved bramble is much less

common and abundant whereas oak

fern is usually the dominant species.

The moss layer is variable in cover.

Ragged-moss is usually the domi-

nant species.

ESSFwc1 - 15

ESSFwc1

06 Bl — Lady fern — Spiny wood fernThe 06 site series is a common unit

found on gentle middle and lower

slopes. Se and Bl dominate the

forest canopy. Cw is occasionally

present in the canopy and sparse re-

generation layer with Bl, Se and Hw.

The shrub layer is sparse to moder-

ate and diverse. Common species

present in minor amounts include

black huckleberry, Utah honeysuckle,

white-fl owered rhododendron, oval-

leaved blueberry, black gooseberry,

devil’s club, black twinberry and thim-

bleberry. The herb layer is very rich

and, unlike drier units, it is dominated

by abundant lady fern. Oak fern and

spiny wood fern are also abundant.

The moss layer is extensive and rag-

ged-moss and large-leaf leafy moss

are usually the most abundant species.

07 Bl — Devil’s club — Lady fernThe 07 site unit occurs infrequently

on toe slopes where seepage is

present. The open forest canopy is

usually dominated by Se with a minor

amount of Bl. Conifer regeneration

is sparse. The shrub layer is domi-

nated by the characteristic species,

devil’s club. Less abundant shrubs

include black huckleberry and oval-

leaved blueberry. The rich herb layer

is similar to that of the 06 unit. Lady

fern and spiny wood fern are the

most abundant species. Oak fern,

one-leaved foamfl ower and Sitka

valerian are common and usually

abundant. The moss layer is sparse

to moderate.

ESSFwc1

ESSFwc1 - 16

ESSFwc1ESSFwc1

08 Bl — Horsetail

The 08 unit is infrequent. It occurs

on toe slopes, level areas and in

depressions where the water table is

near the surface. The forest canopy

is usually very open and consists of

Se and Bl. Cw and Hw may occur

in the sparse regeneration layer

with Se and Bl. The shrub layer

is sparse but often includes black

huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry,

black twinberry and black gooseber-

ry. The 08 unit is distinguished from

other units by the abundant cover

of common horsetail. Other com-

mon herbs include sweet-scented

bedstraw, mitrewort, twistedstalk,

oak fern, one-leaved foamfl ower,

and fi ve-leaved bramble. The moss

layer is variable and may be dominated by peat-moss. Other common

species include glow moss and large-leaf leafy moss.

09 Bl — Mountain hairgrass — Leatherleaf saxifrageThe 09 site series is restricted to level

areas and depressions where the wa-

ter table is at or near the soil surface.

The open canopy is primarily com-

posed of Se with a minor component

of Bl. Conifer regeneration is moder-

ate and usually consists of Bl with a

minor component of Se. The sparse

to moderate shrub layer is patchy and

often confi ned to raised microsites.

Common species include black huck-

leberry, oval-leaved blueberry and

occasionally white-fl owered rhodo-

dendron. The herb layer is dominated

by mountain hairgrass, leatherleaf

saxifrage, Merten’s sedge and violets.

Other herbs include yellow willowherb,

fringed grass-of-parnassus, arrow-

leaved groundsel and common horsetail. Peat-moss, glow moss, bent-leaf

moss and large-leaf leafy moss dominated the moss layer.

ESSFwc1 - 17

ESSFwc1

10 Bl — Bluejoint This is the wettest forested site series

in the ESSFwc1. The water table is

at or just below the soil surface. The

open forest canopy is composed of

scattered Bl and Se typically grow-

ing on hummocks. The shrub layer

is also confi ned to raised hummocks

and usually consists of small patches

of black huckleberry. The herb layer

is dominated by bluejoint reedgrass.

Other common herbs include ar-

row-leaved groundsel, cow-parsnip,

mitrewort, Sitka valerian and fi ve-

leaved bramble. The moss layer is

often extensive and is dominated by

species typically found in very wet

forests and wetlands including bent-

leaf moss and large-leaf leafy moss.

62 Arrow-leaved groundsel — Cow parsnipThe 62 meadow unit is very uncom-

mon. It is found on gentle toe slopes

and level areas. Soils are fi ne to me-

dium textured and slightly moist. The

vegetation community of this unit

consists entirely of herbs. No shrub

or moss species are present. Arrow-

leaved groundsel, cow-parsnip and

stinging nettle largely contribute to

the extremely high herb cover. Other

forbs can include moderate amounts

of mountain monkshood, mitrewort

and blue wildrye.

ESSFwc1

Figure X. Distribution of the ESSFwc2.

Distribution: The ESSFwc2 is the one of the most extensive biogeocli-

matic units in the Southern Interior Forest Region. It occupies the upper

slopes of the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains, the Quesnel and Shuswap

Highlands and the northern Selkirk Mountains. This includes upper slopes

in Wells Gray Park, most side drainages of the North Thompson River,

northern portions of the Clearwater, Adams and Seymour Rivers and the

Columbia Reach southeast of the Mica dam.

Elevational Range: Given the substantial latitudinal range, there is consid-

erable variation in the upper and lower elevational limits of this subzone. At

the climatically wetter northern limits, the ESSFwc2 starts at 1300-1400 m

on north aspects and 1400-1500 m on south aspects. The upper elevational

limits are typically 1650 and 1750 m on north and south aspects, respective-

ly. At the drier southern limits the ESSFwc2 begins at 1400-1450 on north

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICHSBPSSBS

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 1

ESSFwc2NORTHERN MONASHEE WET COLD


aspects and 1450-1500 m on south aspects. The upper elevational limits

are typically 1750 and 1800 m on north and south aspects, respectively.


snowpack and short, cool summers. Estimated mean annual precipitation

for the ESSFwc2 ranges from 1000-1500 mm and maximum snow depths

range between 2 and 3 meters. Growing season moisture defi cits are rare

due to late snowmelt and frequent summer storms. The short growing

season is likely the most limiting climatic factor for biological activity. The

ESSFwc2 likely has a warmer temperature regime than the ESSFwc3 and is

cooler than the ESSFwc4.

Forest Cover: Climax stands of Se and Bl dominate the landscape. Bl

dominates the regeneration layer in most stands. Pl occurs only at the drier

geographic limits of the subzone and on dry ridges and steep, warm slopes.

Hw, Cw, Pw and Fd rarely occur and are usually limited to transitional areas

with the ICH. Fire return intervals are relatively long and most stands are

greater than 200 years old. Stand structure is more strongly infl uenced by

patch dynamics where tree mortality is attributed to insects, disease and

windthrow. Late seral and climax stands are typically 15-18 m tall.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Mature climax stands of Bl and Se dominate

the landscape and successional stands are rare. White-fl owered rhododen-

dron dominates the understory, with minor amounts of black huckleberry,

oval-leaved blueberry and false azalea. The rich herb layer consists of oak

fern, Sitka valerian, fi ve-leaved bramble, rosy twistedstalk and one-leaved

foamfl ower. The patchy bryophyte layer is dominated by red-stemmed

feathermoss, ragged-moss, herons’-bill moss and common leafy liverwort.

Soils are predominantly Humo-Ferric Podzols with Mor humus forms.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ICHmw3, mk2, wk1, and vk1

occur below the ESSFwc2. In the southwestern portion of Wells Gray Park,

the ESSFwk1 occurs below the ESSFwc2. The ESSFwc2 occurs below the

ESSFwcw throughout its range. In drier climates, the ESSFwc2 is replaced

at similar elevations by the ESSFdc2. These two variants abut each other

in TFL18 and along the ridge between the North Thompson and Adams and

Barrierre Lakes. The ESSFwc4 occurs south of the Trans Canada Highway

between Salmon Arm and Revlelstoke at elevations similar to the ESSFwc2.

ESSFwc2 - 2

ESSFwc2ESSFwc2ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 3

ESSFwc2


On zonal sites:

ESSFdc2

• herb layer is more sparsely developed and lacks oak fern

• Pl is more common

ESSFwc4

• false azalea is rarely present

• Utah honeysuckle is present

ESSFwk1

• white-fl owered rhododendron and common leafy liverwort are much

less abundant

• Pl, bunchberry and feathermosses are more common

ESSFvc

• has Hm

ESSFwcw

• stand structure more open and clumpy

• partridge-foot and mountain-heathers are common

ICHmw3, mk2, wk1 and vk1

• climax stands are dominated by Hw and Cw

• successional stands commonly contain Fd, Lw, Pw, Pl, At, Ep

• white-fl owered rhododenron and Sitka valerian absent

72

Rocktr

ipe lic

hens —

Rock-m

oss

73

Huckle

berr

y —

Rock-m

oss

02

Bl —

Huckle

berr

y —

Hero

n’s

-bill

moss

03

Bl —

Rhododendro

n —

Hero

n’s

-bill

moss

01

Bl —

Azale

a —

Oak fern

04

Bl —

Vale

rian —

Oak fern

05

Gro

useberr

y —

Cla

d lic

hens

06

Bl —

Lady fern

— O

ak fern

07

Bl —

Vale

rian —

Arr

ow

-leaved g

roundsel

08

Pl —

Dw

arf

blu

eberr

y —

Peat-

moss

09

Bl —

Hors

eta

il

10

Bl —

Blu

ejo

int

92

Vale

rian —

Subalp

ine d

ais

y

74

Ald

er

— S

how

y s

edge

75

Ald

er

— L

ady fern

76

Will

ow

— M

itre

wort

77

Vale

rian —

Show

y s

edge

78

Blu

ejo

int

— F

irew

eed

79

Lady fern

— H

elle

bore

Wf0

1W

ate

r sedge —

Beaked s

edge

Wf0

3W

ate

r sedge —

Peat-

moss

Wf0

4B

arc

lay’s

will

ow

— W

ate

r sedge —

Glo

w m

oss

Wf0

8S

hore

sedge —

Buckbean —

Hook-m

oss

Wf1

1T

ufted c

lubru

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76541ESSFwc2 - 4

ESSFwc2

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09

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ESSFwc2 - 5

ESSFwc2

Site Unit Flowchart

Rock

Outcrop

Exposed bedrock. Tree cover < 10%. Sparse shrub &

herb layers. Clad and pelt lichens, heron’s-bill moss &

rock-moss often abundant.73

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

06

Infrequent; usually at lower elevations. Seepage

present. Shrub layer moderate; devil’s club &

rhododendron sparse/absent. Herb layer extensive;

lady fern abundant.

Very common. Rhododendron/false azalea dominant.

Herb layer usually sparse; fi ve-leaved bramble most

abundant species.03

Very common. Rhododendron/false azalea dominant.

Herb layer extensive; oak fern, valerian, foam fl ower,

twistedstalk often abundant. 01

Common; usually at higher elevations. Seepage

present. Shrub layer sparse. Herb layer extensive;

Valerian very abundant; lady fern absent; arrow-

leaved groundsel & globefl ower common.

07

Infrequent; usually at lower elevations. Seepage

present. Devil’s club very abundant. Herb layer

extensive; lady fern abundant. 05

Common; usually at higher elevations. Rhododendron

& false azalea sparse/absent. Herb layer extensive;

oak fern, valerian, foam fl ower, twistedstalk often

abundant.

04

72Substrate of rocks & boulders. Sparse tree, shrub and

herb layers. Black huckleberry & mountain cliff fern often

present. Rock-moss & clad & rocktripe lichens common.

Talus

Slope

Infrequent. Shallow soils; sometimes exposed bedrock.

Sparse/absent rhododendron & false azalea; black

huckleberry common. Herbs sparse. Bryophytes

abundant; heron’s-bill moss & clad lichens common.

02

Very common. Rhododendron/false azalea

dominant. Herbs usually sparse. Bryophytes abundant;

lichens sparse/absent.03

Dry

Forests

ESSFwc2 - 6

ESSFwc2

Site Unit Flowchart

Moist to

Wet

Forests

Common. Seepage present. BlSe canopy. Herb layer

extensive; Valerian very abundant; arrow-leaved

groundsel & meadowrue common. Bryophyte layer

variable; peat-mosses absent.

07

Very uncommon. Fluctuating water table. Open Pl canopy.

Dwarf blueberry & peat-mosses very abundant. 08

Infrequent. Water table near surface. BlSe canopy.

Herb layer extensive; common horsetail very

abundant. Bryophyte layer variable; peat-mosses

sometimes very abundant.

09

Very uncommon. Water table at/near surface. Se(Bl)

canopy. Herb layer extensive; Bluejoint reedgrass

very abundant. Peat-mosses usually abundant.10

MeadowIncommon; usually at higher elevations in forest

openings. Seepage present. Subalpine daisy,

globefl ower & valerian abundant. 92

Avalanche

Tracks

Common. Steep, upper, middle and lower slopes.

Shrub-dominated. Sitka alder & lady fern abundant. 75

Uncommon. Steep, middle and upper slopes. Shrub-

dominated. Sitka alder & showy sedge abundant. 74

Very uncommon. Lower and toe slopes. Shrub-

dominated. Serviceberry willow abundant. Extenisve

and rich herb layer. 76

Uncommon. Gentle lower and toe slopes. Herb-

dominated. Bluejoint reedgrass, fi reweed, cow-

parsnip & yellow sedge abundant. 78

Uncommon. Lower and toe slopes. Herb-dominated.

Showy sedge, valerian, mitrewort & hellebore

abundant. 77

Uncommon. Middle to toe slopes. Herb-dominated.

Lady fern, hellebore & valerian abundant.

Bryophytes abundant. 7979


ESSFwc2 - 7

ESSFwc2


Shallow








Wm09 Infl ated sedgeUncommon. Dominated by infl ated sedge. Additional species vary. Mid to high elevation.





Wf08 Shore sedge — Buckbean — Hook-mossUncommon. Dominated by poor (or shore) sedge and/or buckbean. Shallow fl ooding present. Mid to high elevation.






ESSFwc2 - 8

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 9

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ESSFwc2 - 13

ESSFwc2

VX

(X)

VX

(X)

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SX

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(SX

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(SM

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(SH

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ESSFwc2 - 14

ESSFwc2

M

SH

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f subzone

ESSFwc2 - 15

ESSFwc2

72 Rocktripe lichens — Rock-mossTThe 72 unit is very uncommon. It

occurs on exposed talus on steep

and warm, upper and middle slopes.

Scattered individual Pl, Bl or Se trees

may be present. The shrub and herb

layers are very sparse and typically

consist of scattered individuals that

have become established on small

pockets of humus or soil. Black huck-

leberry and mountain cliff fern are

often present. The moss and lichen

layer may be sparse to abundant.

Common species include rock-moss

and clad and rocktripe lichens.

73 Huckleberry — Rock-mossThe 73 unit occurs infrequently and

is found on exposed rock outcrops

or gentle or steep upper slopes and

crests. Scattered individual Pl, Bl

and Se trees (<10% cover) may be

present. Shrubs are sparse to ab-

sent; black huckleberry and false-

box may be present. Occasionally,

dry herbs such as arctic lupine and

prince’s pine, may be present. Clad

lichens, heron’s-bill moss, rock-moss

and pelt lichens are some of the spe-

cies that may be abundant and cover

much of the exposed bedrock.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 16

ESSFwc2

02 Bl — Huckleberry — Heron’s-bill MossThis common site series occurs

on upper slopes and crests where

soils are very shallow and exposed

bedrock may be present. Bl and

Sxw form an open canopy (>10%

cover). The shrub layer is sparse

to moderate and is often dominated

by black huckleberry. The herb layer

is sparse. The substrate is typically

more shaded than that of the 73 unit

so that mosses are more abundant

and species, including red-stemmed

feathermoss and mountain and leafy

liverworts, frequently occur.

03 Bl — Rhododendron — Heron’s-bill moss The 03 unit is very common and

sometimes dominates the landscape,

particularly on plateaus southeast

of Wells Gray Park. Soils are typi-

cally coarse-textured and often have

abundant coarse fragments. The

tree and regeneration layers are

dominated by Bl with a small com-

ponent of Se. White-fl owered rho-

dodendron usually dominates the

shrub layer although false azalea

may be the dominant shrub on sites

near the lower elevational limits of

the subzone. Black huckleberry is

common and occurs as scattered

patches. The herb layer is typically

sparse and species-poor; fi ve-leaved

bramble is often the most abundant

species. The bryophyte layer forms

an extensive carpet that includes heron’s-bill moss, red-stemmed feather-

moss and common leafy liverwort.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 17

ESSFwc2

01 Bl — Azalea — Oak fernThe zonal site series is found on

level areas and on middle and lower

slopes on gentle and, less frequently,

steep slopes. The forest canopy and

regeneration layers are dominated

by Bl and Se. The shrub layer is

dominated by abundant white-fl ow-

ered rhododendron, false azalea and

black huckleberry. Small amounts of

oval-leaved blueberry are frequently

present. Unlike the 03 unit, the herb

layer is more extensive and is often

dominated by Sitka valerian, one-

leaved foamfl ower, oak fern, fi ve-

leaved bramble, Indian hellebore and

rosy twistedstalk. Bryophytes form

an extensive carpet and include her-

on’s-bill moss, common leafy liver-

wort, ragged-moss and red-stemmed

feathermoss.

04 Bl — Valerian — Oak fernThe 04 unit is widespread but occurs

most often at higher elevations. It

is found on middle and lower gentle

slopes and level areas. The forest

canopy and regeneration layers are

dominated by Bl and Se. Unlike the

01 and 03 site series, the shrub layer

is much less extensive and white-

fl owered rhododendron and false

azalea occur only as scattered indi-

viduals. The extensive herb layer is

similar to the 01 unit and is dominated

by a Sitka valerian, one-leaved foam-

fl ower, oak fern, fi ve-leaved bramble,

Indian hellebore and rosy twisted-

stalk. The extensive bryophyte layer

is dominated by ragged-moss, red-

stemmed feathermoss and heron’s-

bill moss. Common leafy liverwort is less common.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 18

ESSFwc2

05 Bl — Devil’s club — Lady fernThis site series occurs infrequently

and typically near the lower eleva-

tional limits of the ESSFwc2. It is

found on gentle middle, lower and toe

slopes and level areas where seep-

age is present. Bl and Se form the

open forest canopy and regenera-

tion is usually sparse. Unlike other

site units, devil’s club is common

and abundant. False azalea and, to

a lesser extent, white-fl owered rho-

dodendron, are sometimes present.

Black gooseberry is often present

in minor amounts. Lady fern is usu-

ally the dominant species in the rich

herb layer. Spiny wood fern is often

present but is typically less abun-

dant. The bryophyte layer is sparse

to moderate and is often dominated

by ragged-moss.

06 Bl — Lady fern — Oak fernThe 06 unit is uncommon at lower el-

evations on middle and lower slopes

where seepage is present. The open

forest canopy is composed of Bl and

Se. Conifer regeneration is sparse.

The moderate shrub layer is most

often dominated by false azalea with

minor components of black huck-

leberry, oval-leaved blueberry and

black gooseberry. White-fl owered

rhododendron and devil’s club are

very sparse or absent. The rich herb

layer and sparse to moderate bryo-

phyte layer are similar to the 05 unit.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 19

ESSFwc2

07 Bl — Valerian — Arrow-leaved groundsel This common unit is found most of-

ten at higher elevations. It occurs on

lower and toe slopes and level areas

where seepage is present. Bl and

Se form an open canopy and sparse


is also sparse; the most common

species are black huckleberry, oval-

leaved blueberry and white-fl owered

rhododendron. The rich herb layer is

dominated by Sitka valerian. Other

species present include oak fern,

one-leaved foamfl ower, rosy twist-

edstalk and Indian hellebore. Un-

like the 05 and 06 units, large ferns

are absent whereas arrow-leaved

groundsel, sweet-cicely, mountain

arnica, western meadowrue and fringed grass-of-Parnassus are frequently

present. The bryophyte layer is highly variable; ragged-moss, bent-leaf

moss and large-leaf leafy moss are usually the most abundant species.

08 Bl — Dwarf blueberry — Peat-mossThis is a very uncommon site series

that is known only from the Mad and

Raft Rivers area northeast of Clear-

water. It occurs on level sites or

depressions where organic veneers

overlay fi ne-textured soils. The wa-

ter table appears to fl uctuate sea-

sonally so that soils are very moist

in the spring but are dry during the

summer and fall. The forest canopy

is usually dominated by very open Pl

stands with minor Bl and Se. Shrubs

are absent other than scattered indi-

viduals of black huckleberry or oval-

leaved blueberry. The most distinc-

tive feature of this site unit is that the

herb and moss layers are dominated

by dwarf blueberry and peat-moss,

respectively. Minor amounts of bog

and common haircap mosses are often present.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 20

ESSFwc2

09 Bl — Horsetail — Peat-mossThe 09 unit occur infrequently on toe

slopes, level areas and in depres-

sions. Soils are moist to wet and

the water table is usually near the

soil surface. Se and Bl usually form

a very open canopy and are often

present in the regeneration layer on

raised microsites. The shrub layer

is typically sparse; oval-leaved blue-

berry is the most common and abun-

dant species. Other species include

black huckleberry, false azalea, black

gooseberry and black twinberry. The

rich herb layer is highly variable but is

usually dominated by abundant com-

mon horsetail. The bryophyte layer is

also variable. Peat-moss is often the

most abundant species.

10 Bl — BluejointThis site series is very uncommon.

It is found on level areas or in de-

pressions where the water table

is at or near the soil surface. Se is

the dominant species and occurs as

scattered individuals or in clumps on

raised microsites. Se and Bl occur

in the regeneration layer. Shrubs are

absent except on raised microsites

where oval-leaved blueberry or false

azalea may be present. The herb

layer is distinctive because of the ex-

tensive cover of bluejoint reedgrass.

Common horsetail and arrow-leaved

groundsel are usually present in mi-

nor amounts. The moderate moss

layer is usually dominated by peat-

moss.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 21

ESSFwc2

92 Valerian — Subalpine daisyThe 92 meadow unit is infrequent

and typically occurs at higher eleva-

tions in forest openings. It is found

on gentle lower and toe slopes and

level areas where seepage is abun-

dant. Trees and shrubs are absent

except for scattered individuals

of Bl, Se, black huckleberry, oval-

leaved blueberry or white-fl owered

rhododendron. The rich herb layer

is dominated by Sitka valerian, sub-

alpine daisy and globefl ower. Other


one-leaved foamfl ower, arrow-leaved

groundsel, violets, showy sedge and

white mountain marsh-marigold. The

moderate bryophyte layer often con-

tains peat-moss, bent-leaf moss and

round-leaved leafy moss.

74 Alder — Showy sedgeThis is an uncommon avalanche

track unit that is located at higher

elevations and in climatically wetter

portions of the ESSFwc2. It occurs

on cool, steep upper and middle

slopes on very rocky soils. It is domi-

nated by very dense Sitka alder. The

herb layer is dominated by showy

sedge. Other herbaceous species

are sparse or absent. The bryophyte

layer is also sparse; heron’s-bill moss

and ragged-moss are common spe-

cies.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 22

ESSFwc2

75 Alder — Lady fernThis is probably the most common

and widespread avalanche unit. It

occurs on steep upper, middle and

lower slopes. Like the 74 unit, the

shrub layer is dominated by dense

Sitka alder. The herb layer is usu-

ally dominated by lady fern. Other


include spiny wood fern, Indian hel-

lebore, one-leaved foamfl ower, rosy

twisted stalk and showy sedge. The

bryophyte layer is variable in compo-

sition and extent.

76 Willow — MitrewortThis is a very uncommon avalanche

track unit. It is usually found on moist

lower or toe slopes near the base of

avalanche tracks. The shrub layer is

dominated by abundant serviceberry

willow. The extensive herb layer is

dominated by mitrewort, showy sedge

and arrow-leaved groundsel. Other

common species include fi reweed

and Sitka valerian. The moderate

bryophyte layer is often dominated

by bent-leaf moss.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 23

ESSFwc2

77 Valerian — Showy sedgeThis uncommon avalanche unit is

found on lower and toe slopes where

abundant seepage is present. Shrubs

are lacking and the rich herb layer is

dominated by mitrewort, Indian hel-

lebore, showy sedge, Sitka valerian

and fi reweed. The bryophyte layer is

variable.

78 Bluejoint — FireweedThe 78 avalanche track unit is uncom-

mon and is found on gentle lower and

toe slopes where seepage is present.

Shrubs are absent and the rich herba-

ceous layer is dominated by bluejoint

reedgrass, fi reweed, cow-parsnip and

yellow sedge. Other species present

in minor amounts include Sitka vale-

rian and showy sedge. The bryophyte

layer is very sparse.

ESSFwc2

ESSFwc2 - 24

ESSFwc2ESSFwc2

79 Lady fern — HelleboreThe 79 avalanche track unit is un-

common and appears to occur in

the climatically wetter portions of the

ESSFwc2. Shrubs are absent and

the rich herbaceous layer is domi-

nated by lady fern, Indian hellebore

and Sitka valerian. Other common

species include oak fern, mitrewort,

one-leaved foamfl ower and showy

sedge. The moss layer is usually ex-

tensive and ragged-moss, large-leaf

leafy moss and bent-leaf moss are

common species.

ESSFwc4SELKIRK - MONASHEE WET COLD


Distribution: The ESSFwc4 occurs in the southern Monashee and Selkirk

Mountains. It extends north from the US border to the Trans-Canada

Highway between Sicamous and the Rogers Pass. It primarily occurs west

of Kootenay Lake to Mabel Lake. It occupies the interior “wetbelt” as an

elevation band above several ICH biogeoclimatic units (ICHmw2, mw3, wk1,

vk1) or the ESSFwc1.

Elevational Range: Due to the substantial latitudinal range of the ESS-

Fwc4, there is considerable variation in the upper and lower elevational lim-

its of this subzone. At the northwest limits, it starts at 1450-1500 m on north

aspects and 1500-1600 m on south aspects. In the south, where it can

occur above the ESSwc1, its lower limit begins at approximately 1600m on

north aspects and 1650 on south aspects. Throughout its range it extends to

1750-1800 m on north slopes and 1800-1850 on south slopes.

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICHSBPSSBS

ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4 - 1


snowpack and short, cool summers. It is estimated that the mean annual

precipitation for the ESSFwc4 ranges from 1200-1500 mm and maximum

snow depths range between 2 and 3 meters. Growing season moisture

defi cits are rare due to late snowmelt and frequent summer storms. The

short growing season is likely the most limiting climatic factor for biologi-

cal activity. Its southern distribution makes it is slightly warmer than the

ESSFwc2 and wc3.

Forest Cover: Climax stands of Se and Bl dominate the landscape. Bl

dominates the regeneration layer in most stands. Pl occurs only at the drier

geographical limits of the variant and occasionally on dry ridges and steep

south slopes. Hw, Cw, Pw and Fd rarely occur and are generally limited to

ICH - ESSF transitional areas. Fire return intervals are relatively long and

most stands are greater than 200 years old. Stand structures are strongly

infl uenced by patch dynamics where tree mortality is attributed to insects,

disease and windthrow. Late seral and climax stands are typically 15-18 m

tall.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Climax stands are dominated by Se and Bl.

The well developed shrub layer is dominated by white-fl owered rhodoen-

dron, black huckleberry, and black gooseberry. The herb layer is moder-

ately well developed and includes Sitka valerian, mountain arnica, oak fern,

one-leaved foamfl ower and fi ve-leaved bramble. The moss is dominated

by ragged-moss, common leafy liverwort and heron’s-bill moss. Soils are

Humo-Ferric Podzols with a shallow Mor humus form.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: .The ESSFwc4 typically lies above

the the ESSFwc1 in areas of the former Nelson Forest Region. It also

occurs in the Cherryville/Sugar Lake area above the ICHmk1 or ICHmw2.

The ESSFwc4 occurs below the ESSFwcw throughout it’s distribution.

ESSFwc4ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4 - 2


On zonal sites:

ESSFdc1

• oak fern is absent and the herb layer is less developed

• grouseberry is often present

• Pl is commonly present

ESSFwc2

• false azalea is common, widespread and dominates many sites

• Utah honeysuckle is less common or absent

ESSFwm

• Lw, Pw and false azalea are more common

• small-fl owered wood-rush is absent

• mountain hairgrass, Sitka valerian and Indian hellebore are less abun-

dant

ESSFvc

• Hm present

• false azalea is often present

ESSFwcw

• stand structure is more open and clumpy

• partridge-foot and mountain-heathers are common

ICHmw2, mw3, wk1, vk1, mk1

• Hw and Cw dominate climax and late succession stands

• Fd, Lw, Pw, At, and Ep frequently occur in successional stands

• white-fl owered rhododenron and Sitka valerian are absent

ESSFwc4ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4 - 3

72

Rocktr

ipe lic

hens —

Rock-m

oss

73

Rock-m

oss —

Cla

d lic

hens

74

Huckle

berr

y —

Rock-m

oss

02

Bl —

Huckle

berr

y —

Hero

n’s

-bill

moss

03

Bl —

Rhododendro

n —

Hero

n’s

-bill

moss

01

Bl —

Rhododendro

n —

Oak f

ern

04

Bl —

Vale

rian —

Oak fern

05

Bl —

Lady fern

— O

ak fern

06

Bl —

Vale

rian —

Arr

ow

-leaved g

roundsel

07

Bl —

Hors

eta

il

08

Bl —

Vale

rian —

Subalp

ine d

ais

y

92

Vale

rian —

Show

y s

edge

75

Ald

er

— L

ady f

ern

76

Vale

rian —

Arr

ow

-leaved g

roundsel

Wf0

1W

ate

r sedge —

Beaked s

edge

Wf0

3W

ate

r sedge —

Peat-

moss

Wf0

4B

arc

lay’s

will

ow

— W

ate

r sedge —

Glo

w m

oss

Wf1

1T

ufted c

lubru

sh —

Sta

r m

oss

Wf1

2N

arr

ow

-leaved c

otton-g

rass —

Mars

h-m

arigold

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Ws

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76541

ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4 - 4

Ed

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AN

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72

7

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75 0

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74

ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4 - 5


Dry

Forests Common. Gentle or warm & steep slopes. BlSe

canopy & regeneration layer. Rhododendron very

abundant (>10%) with some huckleberry. Sparse to

moderate herb layer dominated by fi ve-leaved bramble.

Extensive moss layer dominated by heron’s-bill moss.

03

Uncommon. Warm, steep slopes. Abundant black

huckleberry and minor rhododendron. Moderate

herb layer usually dominated by fi ve-leaved bramble.


02

Rock

Outcrop

Exposed bedrock. Trees absent except possibly scattered

Bl. Sparse shrub layer; possibly trace amounts of black

huckleberry. Sparse herb layer; Alaska saxifrage is

the most common species. Moss & lichen layer very

extensive; rock-moss is usually the dominant species.

73

Exposed bedrock. Tree layer sparse (<10%); may

include Pl, Bl or Sxw. Shrub layer with abundant

black huckleberry and possibly minor rhododendron.

Sparse herb layer; Alaska saxifrage is the most

common species. Moss & lichen layer extensive and is

dominated by rock-moss.

74

Substrate of rocks and boulders. Tree, shrub and

herb layers are sparse/absent. Moss & lichen layer may

be extensive. The most common species are rocktripe

lichens, awned haircap moss & clad lichens.

72Talus

Slope

Common. Gentle or cool & steep slopes. Rhododendron

very abundant (>10%). Extensive herb layer

dominated by valerian & oak fern. Moderate moss

layer usually dominated by ragged-moss.

Uncommon. Gentle slopes & level areas near upper

elevations. Moderate cover of rhododendron &

huckleberry. Extensive herb layer often dominated by

Sitka valerian; sparse/absent ferns. Moderate moss

layer.

06

Common. Gentle slopes & level areas near lower

elevations. Both rhododendron & huckleberry sparse

(<10%). Extensive herb layer dominated by lady fern.

Abundant valerian, oak fern & foamfl ower. Moderate moss

layer.

05

Common. Gentle or warm & steep slopes. Rhododendron

very abundant (>10%) with some huckleberry. Sparse to

moderate herb layer dominated by fi ve-leaved bramble.


03

01

04Common. Gentle slopes & level areas. Rhododendron

sparse (<10%). Extensive herb layer dominated by

valerian, oak fern & foamfl ower. Moderate moss layer.

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4 - 6


Moist to

Wet

Forests08

Very uncommon. Wet toe slopes, level areas &

depressions. Se(Bl) canopy. Moderate shrub layer.

Extensive herb layer; common species include subalpine

daisy, valerian, soft-leaved sedge, horsetail, &

globefl ower. Extensive moss layer.

07

Common. Wet level areas & depressions. SeBl canopy.

Sparse shrub layer. Extensive herb layer dominated by

common horsetail (>10%). Reedgrass, arrow-leaved

groundsel & valerian common. Variable moss layer.

76Very uncommon. Gentle & steep slopes. Sparse/absent

shrubs. Extensive herb layer dominated by arrow-

leaved groundsel & valerian. Bryophytes sparse.

75Uncommon. Steep slopes. Abundant and dense Sitka

alder. Lady fern common. Bryophytes sparse.

Avalanche

Tracks

92Level areas and gentle slopes. Tree & shrub layers sparse

or absent. Abundant showy sedge, valerian and arrow-

leaved groundsel. Bryophytes sparse or absent.Meadow

ESSFwc4 - 7

ESSFwc4



Shallow



SwampsMineral soil; fl uctuating, near- surface water table; shrubs and various herbs.













Ws13 Barclay’s willow — Common horsetailUncommon. Characterized by a high cover of Barclay’s (or under-green) willow and a diverse herb layer with an abundance of common horsetail. High elevation.



ESSFwc4 - 8

ESSFwc4

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ESSFwc4 - 9

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ESSFwc4 - 10

ESSFwc4

72

73

02

03

01

04

05

07

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92

75

76

Moss

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74

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soft-leaved s

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cow

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ESSFwc4 - 11

ESSFwc4

VX

X

VX

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X

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S

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XS

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SM

M

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SH

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Variable

Rocks &

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Bedro

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Bedro

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Seepage

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MC

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Un

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Un

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3,4

1 M

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4 A

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ay o

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associa

ted w

ith p

late

au fore

sts

.

ESSFwc4 - 12

72 Rocktripe lichens — Rock-mossThis unit is uncommon and occurs

on talus slopes on steep, middle and

upper slopes. Trees, shrubs and

herbs are sparse or absent. The moss

and lichen layer may be extensive.

Common species include rocktripe

lichens, awned haircap moss and

clad lichens.

73 Rock-moss — Clad lichensThe 73 unit occurs infrequently and

is found on exposed rock outcrops

on upper slopes and crests. Trees

are absent except Bl which may be

present as scattered individuals.

The shrub layer is very sparse;

black huckleberry may occur in small

patches. The herb layer is also

sparse; Alaska saxifrage is the most

common species. The moss and

lichen layer is very extensive. Rock-

moss is usually the most abundant

and common species. Other common

species include awned haircap moss,

clad lichens and heron’s-bill moss.

ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4 - 13

74 Huckleberry — Rock-mossThis unit is uncommon and is found

on exposed rock outcrops on upper

slopes and crests. Trees are sparse

(<10%) and may include Pl, Bl or Se.

Unlike the 73 unit, the shrub layer is

moderate and is dominated by patchy

black huckleberry. White-fl owered

rhododendron may also be present

in minor amounts. The herb layer is

sparse and, like the 73 unit, Alaska

saxifrage is a common species.

The bryophyte and lichen layer is

extensive and is dominated by rock-

moss. Other common species include

mountain leafy liverwort, heron’s-bill

moss, awned and juniper haircap

mosses and clad lichens.

02 Bl — Huckleberry — Heron’s-bill mossThe 02 unit is uncommon. It occurs

on warm, middle and upper slopes.

The forest canopy and sparse

regeneration layer are composed

of Bl and Se. Black huckleberry

dominates the extensive shrub

layer; minor amounts of white-

fl owered rhododendron are also

present. The moderate herb layer

is usually dominated by fi ve-leaved

bramble. Other common species

include mountain arnica, one-sided

wintergreen, one-leaved foamfl ower

and violets. The extensive moss

layer is dominated by heron’s-bill

moss. Other common species

include clad lichens, common leafy

liverwort, ragged-moss, red-stemmed

feathermoss and pipecleaner moss.

ESSFwc4

ESSFwc4 - 14

ESSFwc4

03 Bl — Rhododendron — Heron’s-bill mossThis is a common unit found on

gentle or steep and warm slopes.

The closed canopy and sparse

regeneration layer is dominated by

Bl with a smaller amount of Se. The

extensive shrub layer is dominated

by white-fl owered rhododendron

(>15%). Black huckleberry is also

abundant. Small amounts of oval-

leaved blueberry may also be present.

The herb layer is sparse to moderate;

the most abundant species is usually

fi ve-leaved bramble. Other common

species include mountain arnica,

one-sided wintergreen and one-

leaved foamfl ower. The moss layer

is dominated by heron’s-bill moss.

Other common species include clad

and pelt lichens, mountain and common leafy liverworts, ragged-moss,

red-stemmed feathermoss and pipecleaner moss.

01 Bl — Rhododendron — Oak fernThe zonal site series occurs on

gentle or steep and cool slopes.

The canopy and regeneration layers

are dominated by Bl with a minor

component of Se. The shrub layer

is dominated by white-fl owered

rhododendron with abundant black


and black gooseberry may also be

present. The herb layer is much more

extensive than that of the 03 unit;

oak fern and Sitka valerian are often

the most abundant species. Other

abundant species include fi ve-leaved

bramble and one-leaved foamfl ower.

The moderate moss layer is usually

dominated by ragged-moss. Other

common species include heron’s-

bill moss, round-leaved leafy moss, pipecleaner moss, red-stemmed

feathermoss and common leafy liverwort.

ESSFwc4 - 15

ESSFwc4

04 Bl — Valerian — Oak fernThis site unit is common on gentle

slopes and level areas. The canopy

and regeneration layers are similar to

drier units and are often dominated

by Bl with a minor component of

Se. The shrub layer differs in that

white-fl owered rhododendron is

sparse (<10%). Otherwise, the

shrub layer resembles that of the

01 unit. The herb layer is extensive

and is dominated by oak fern, Sitka

valerian, one-leaved foamfl ower

and fi ve-leaved bramble. The moss

layer is usually dominated by ragged-

moss with minor components of

pipecleaner moss, common leafy

liverwort, heron’s-bill moss

05 Bl — Lady fern — Oak fernThe 05 unit is common and is

found on gentle slopes and level

areas. It occurs more frequently

near the lower elevation limits of

the ESSFwc4. Either Bl or Se may

dominate the mixed forest canopy.

As with drier units, the regeneration

layer is sparse. Both white-fl owered

rhododendron and black huckleberry

are relatively sparse (<10%). Other

shrubs, including devil’s club and

black twinberry, may be present

in trace amounts. The herb layer

is similar to drier units and often

has abundant oak fern, one-leaved

foamfl ower and Sitka valerian. It

differs in that lady fern is often the

most abundant species. The moss

layer is variable; ragged-moss is

often the most common and abundant species.

ESSFwc4 - 16

ESSFwc4

06 Bl — Valerian — Arrow-leaved groundselThis is an uncommon unit that occurs

most frequently near the upper

elevation limits of the subzone. It

is found on moist gentle slopes and

level areas. The BlSe forest canopy

and regeneration layer are similar to

those of drier units. The moderate

shrub layer is often dominated

by white-fl owered rhododendron.

Black huckleberry and oval-leaved

blueberry may also be abundant.

The herb layer is often dominated

by Sitka valerian. Unlike drier units,

ferns are not abundant. Instead,

arrow-leaved groundsel, globefl ower,

and western meadowrue are often

abundant species. The moderate

bryophyte layer is often dominated by

ragged-moss.

07 Bl — Horsetail The 07 unit occurs frequently on

level areas and depressions where

the water table is near the surface.

Se tends to be more abundant than

Bl in the open forest canopy but

like previous units, Bl dominates

the regeneration layer. The shrub

layer is sparse and may contain

minor amounts of white-fl owered

rhododendron, black huckleberry

and oval-leaved blueberry. The

herb layer differs from all other

units in that common horsetail is

the most common and abundant

species (>10%). Other common

species include bluejoint reedgrass

and arrow-leaved groundsel. The

variable bryophyte layer may include

peat-moss, bent-leaf moss, large-leaf

leafy moss or ragged-moss.

ESSFwc4 - 17

ESSFwc4

08 Bl — Valerian — Subalpine daisyThis is the wettest forest unit and is

very uncommon. It occurs on toe

slopes, level areas and in depressions,

usually at higher elevations. The

open forest canopy is dominated by

Se with a minor component of Bl.

The regeneration layer is very sparse

and is usually dominated by Bl.

The moderate shrub layer contains

white-fl owered rhododendron, black

huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry

and black twinberry. The herb layer

is extensive; common species include

subalpine daisy, Sitka valerian, soft-

leaved sedge, common horsetail,

globefl ower, one-leaved foamfl ower

and mitrewort. The extensive

bryophyte layer includes large-leaf

leafy moss, bent-leaf moss, sickle-

moss, glow moss and peat-moss.

92 Valerian — Showy sedgeMeadows are uncommon. They are

usually found on gentle slopes and

level areas. Trees and shrubs are

sparse or absent. The herb layer

is dominated by a mixture of showy

sedge, arrow-leaved groundsel

and Sitka valerian. Other common

species include mitrewort, wood-

rush, globefl ower, common horsetail

and subalpine daisy. Bryophytes are

sparse or absent.

ESSFwc4 - 18

ESSFwc4

75 Alder — Lady fernThis avalanche unit is uncommon and

is found on steep slopes. The shrub

layer is extensive and is dominated

by a dense cover of Sitka alder. The

herb layer is relatively well-developed

and is usually dominated by lady

fern. Other species present in minor

amounts include mitrewort, oak fern,

Sitka valerian and spiny wood fern.

Bryophytes are sparse.

76 Valerian — Arrow-leaved groundselThis is a very uncommon avalanche

unit that is found on steep and gentle,

middle and lower slopes. Shrubs are

sparse or absent. The extensive herb

layer is dominated by Sitka valerian

and arrow-leaved groundsel. Other


Indian hellebore, violets, western

meadowrue, cow-parsnip and showy

sedge. Bryophytes are very sparse.

ESSFwcw - 1

ESSFwcw

ESSFwcwWET COLD

ENGELMANN SPRUCE — SUBALPINE FIR WOODLAND SUBZONE

Distribution: The ESSFwcw represents the northern distribution of the

previously described ESSFvv, Lloyd et al. (1990). It occupies an elevational

band between the ESSFwc subzone/variants (ESSFwc2, wc3, wc4) and

the ESSFwcp. It extends over a large area from the US border to north

of Quesnel Lake, including the Quesnel and Shuswap Highlands and the

Cariboo, Monashee and Selkirk Mountains.

Elevational Range: Given the substantial latitudinal range, there is

considerable variation in the upper and lower elevational limits of this

subzone. On dry plateaus and at the subzones southern extremes it occurs

between 1750 and 1950m on north aspects and between 1800 and 2000m

on south aspects. In wetter mountainous terrain, such as the Blue River

and upper Columbia River areas, the lower elevational limit is 1600-1650m

on north slopes and 1700-1750m on south aspects. The upper elevational

limits extend to 1850-1900 m and 1950-2000 m on north and south slopes

respectively.


snowpack and short, cool summers. It is estimated that the mean annual

precipitation for the ESSFwcw ranges from 1800-2200mm and maximum

snow depths range between 3 and 4 meters. Late snowmelt and a very

short frost-free period contribute to the short growing season. As a result,

tree regeneration is slow to establish and is often widely dispersed or some-

what clumpy.

Forest Cover: Most f stands are dominated by Bl and generally, contain

less than 20% Se. Spruce is more common on steep south slopes that

receive less intense summer frosts, have earlier snow melt and a slightly

longer growing season. Pl and Pa rarely occur and are restricted to drier

exposed ridges. Stands are typically greater than 200 years old, have an

open stand structure and average 10-13 meters in height. The wet climate

and open stand structure results in fi re return intervals that likely exceed

250–500 years. 1000-year-old trees have been observed. Balsam bark

beetle, root rot and windthrow contribute to gap dynamic processes that

ensure average stands ages are less than 350 years.

ESSFwcw - 2

ESSFwcwESSFwcw

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Semi-open climax stands of Bl with little or no

Se dominate much of the ESSFwcw landscape. Bl is the primary regen-

erating species. The shrub layer has variable development but commonly

includes black huckleberry and white-fl owered rhododendron. The herb

layer is moderately well developed and includes Sitka valerian, mountain

arnica, wood-rush, mountain hairgrass and minor amounts of partridge-foot

and mountain-heathers. The well developed moss layer is dominated by

common and mountain leafy liverworts. Soils are Humo-Ferric Podzols or

Ferro-Humic Podzols with a shallow Mor humus form. The abundance of

mountain-heathers and partridge-foot increases signifi cantly in areas sub-

ject to cold air drainage such as cirque basins.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ESSFwcw occurs above the

ESSFwc2, wc3 or wc4 and below the ESSFwcp. It adjoins the ESSFvcw at

similar elevations in the Revelstoke area.

ESSFwcw - 3

ESSFwcw

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ESSFwcw

On zonal sites:

ESSFwc2, wc3, wc4

• late succession stands are taller and less open

• oak fern, lady fern, rosy twistedstalk, false azalea are more common

• lacks partridge-foot and heather species

ESSFvcw

• very similar to the ESSFwcw but has Hm

• occurs elevationally above the ESSFvc

ESSFwcp

• has a clumpy discontinuous forest canopy

• herb rich meadows and mouintain-heather-dominated ecosystems are

common, widespread and not restricted to areas subject to cold air

drainage.

ESSFwcw - 4

ESSFwcw

72

Bro

ad

-le

ave

d w

illo

wh

erb

73

Rh

od

od

en

dro

n —

He

ron

’s-b

ill m

oss

74

Ala

ska

sa

xifra

ge

— R

ock-m

oss

75

Wh

ite

mo

un

tain

-he

ath

er

— R

ock-m

oss

02

Bl —

Rh

od

od

en

dro

n —

Wh

ite

mo

un

tain

-he

ath

er

03

Bl —

Wh

ite

mo

un

tain

-he

ath

er

— P

art

rid

ge

-fo

ot

04

Bl —

Rh

od

od

en

dro

n —

He

ron

’s -

bill

mo

ss

05

Bl —

Rh

od

od

en

dro

n —

Va

leria

n

01

Bl —

Hu

ckle

be

rry —

Va

leria

n

06

Bl —

Va

leria

n —

Arr

ow

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d g

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very

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hyg

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76541

ESSFwcw - 5

ESSFwcwE

da

top

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01

72

7

3 7

4 7

5

05

02

0

3 0

4

06

WE

TL

AN

DS

82

Wh

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un

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ath

er

— w

oo

lly p

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83

Wh

ite

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un

tain

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ath

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— P

art

rid

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92

Wo

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pu

ssyto

es —

Cla

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he

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93

Va

leria

n —

Sh

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94

Alp

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se

dg

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95

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96

Alp

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76

Ald

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bo

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77

Will

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76541

ESSFwcw

ESSFwcw - 6

Ed

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96

95

82

83

92 77

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ESSFwcw - 7

ESSFwcw

Rock

Outcrops75

Uncommon. Exposed bedrock. Sparse tree & shrub

layers. Abundant white mountain-heather. Moss

and lichen layer often with abundant crustose & clad

lichens, rock-moss, awned haircap moss & heron’s bill

moss.

74

Uncommon. Exposed bedrock. Sparse tree, shrub &

herb layers. Moss and lichen layer often with abundant

crustose & clad lichens, rock-moss, awned haircap

moss & heron’s bill moss.

Dry

Forests

Uncommon. Gentle or steep lower, middle or upper

slopes & crests. Bl canopy. Abundant rhododendron.

Herb layer dominated by white-mountain heather.

Mountain leafy liverwort or heron’s-bill moss abundant.

May be late snow melt areas.

02

03

Uncommon. Gentle or steep and cool, middle or upper

slopes & level areas. Soils sometimes shallow. Open

Bl canopy. Sparse/absent rhododendron & moderate

black huckleberry. Herb layer dominated by white

mountain-heather. Mountain leafy liverwort or heron’s-

bill moss abundant.

05

04Common. Steep middle & upper slopes. Bl(Se) canopy.

Abundant rhododendron. Sparse herb layer.

Mountain leafy liverwort or heron’s-bill moss abundant.

01

06

Common. Gentle middle & lower slopes, gullies &

level areas. Bl(Se) canopy. Sparse black huckleberry.

Extensive herb layer with abundant arrow-leaved

groundsel, globefl ower and hellebore. Variable

bryophyte layer.

Common. Gentle or steep slopes. Bl(Se) canopy.

Sparse/absent rhododendron and spare black

huckleberry. Extensive herb layer with abundant

valerian. Sparse to moderate bryophyte layer. Sparse

mountain leafy liverwort.

Common. Gentle or steep middle and upper slopes. Bl(Se)

canopy. Abdundant rhododendron. Extensive herb

layer with abundant valerian. Abundant mix of heron’s-

bill moss, mountain leafy liverwort & ragged-moss.

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

Boulder

Slope

72

Substrate of boulders. Steep slopes. Tree, shrub & herb

layers very sparse. Common species include broad-

leaved willowherb and white mountain-heather.

Sparse moss & lichen layer.

73Substrate of boulders. Steep slopes. White-fl owered

rhododendron dominates the vegetation. Sparse herb

& moss & lichen layers.


ESSFwcw - 8

ESSFwcw

83

Uncommon. Upper, middle & lower slopes at upper

elevations. Late snowmelt area. Very abundant white

mountain-heather and partridge-foot. Moderate moss

& lichen layer dominated by mountain leafy liverwort &

heron’s-bill moss.

Uncommon. Upper slopes & crests at upper elevations.

Sometimes shallow soils. Late snowmelt area. Very

abundant white mountain-heather and woolly

pussytoes. Moss & lichen layer very sparse.

82

Heath

Avalanche

Tracks

Uncommon. Steep middle & lower slopes. Shrub-

dominated. Dense cover of Sitka alder. Abundant

hellebore & lady fern. Sparse bryophyte layer.76

77

Uncommon. Steep or gentle middle & lower slopes. Shrub-

dominated. Moderate cover of Barclay’s willow. Extensive

herb layer with abundant arrow-leaved groundsel,

valerian & hellebore. Sparse bryophyte layer.

Meadows

95

Uncommon. Wet lower and toe slopes, level areas &

depressions. Abundant arrow-leaved groundsel,

leatherleaf saxifrage, white mountain marsh-

marigold & valerian. Extensive moss & lichen layer

dominated by peat-moss or glow moss.

94

Uncommon. Moist to wet toe slopes, level areas &

depressions at higher elevations. Late snowmelt areas.

Black alpine sedge dominates the vegetation. Very few

other species. Bryophyte layer variable.

93Common. Moist middle, lower & toe slopes & level areas.

Herb layer dominated by valerian, hellebore and showy

sedge. Moss & lichen layer sparse.

Very uncommon. Dry upper slopes, crests & level areas

at upper elevations. Herb layer dominated by woolly

pussytoes. Moderate moss & lichen layer includes

clad lichens, juniper & awned haircap mosses, heron’s-

bill moss & mountain leafy liverwort.

92

96

Uncommon. Wet level areas & depressions. Herb layer

dominated by black alpine sedge. Other abundant

species include white mountain marsh-marigold,

leatherleaf saxifrage & arrow-leaved groundsel.

Extensive moss & lichen layer dominated by peat-moss

or glow moss.


ESSFwcw - 9

ESSFwcw









Wf15 Barclay’s willow — Black alpine sedgeUncommon. Dominated by Barcaly’s (or under-green) willow and black alpine sedge. High elevation.



Ws13 Barclay’s willow — Common horsetailUncommon. Characterized by a high cover of Barclay’s (or under-green) willow and a diverse herb layer with an abundance of common horsetail. High elevation.



ESSFwcw - 10

ESSFwcw

ESSFwcw - 11

ESSFwcwV

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ESSFwcw - 12

ESSFwcw

Moss

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ESSFwcw - 13

ESSFwcwV

eg

eta

tio

n T

ab

le

82

83

92

93

94

95

96

76

1111

223

43

22

77

6

Site U

nits

No. of P

lots

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rbs

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ESSFwcw - 14

ESSFwcw

Site U

nits

Moss

es

& Lic

hens

He

rbs

82

83

92

93

94

95

96

76

77

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noca

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ryop

teris

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oak fern

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teri

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na

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ge

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cu

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nc

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Site U

nits

01

72

73

74

02

75

03

04

05

06

ESSFwcw - 15

ESSFwcw

Bo

uld

er1

Ro

ck

Ou

tcro

ps

Fo

res

ts

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(X)

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(M)

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)

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(M)

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(SM

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G

(M)

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M

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P

MD

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(UP

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LW

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(UP

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ria

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(MD

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)

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ep

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ep

(Ge

ntle

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(Ge

ntle

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ria

ble

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ria

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Ste

ep

(Ge

ntle

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ep

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ntle

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ria

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ntle

Le

ve

l

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ria

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Va

ria

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ria

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Ne

utr

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(Co

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diu

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co

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fels

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like, consis

tinin

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soils

matr

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vir

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me

nt

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na

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cu

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nc

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Site U

nits

77

82

83

92

94

93

95

96

76

He

ath

sA

va

lan

ch

e T

rac

ks

Me

ad

ow

s

ESSFwcw - 16

ESSFwcw

X

SX

SM

M

SX

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MM

(SH

G)

SH

G

SH

D

HG

SH

G

HG

(SH

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HD

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M

M

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U

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(LV

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ntle

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ve

l

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ria

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ve

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ve

l

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ve

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tee

pG

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tle

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ep

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utr

al

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ol

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utr

al

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ria

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utr

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ria

ble

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aria

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(Mb

)

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FG

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(Mv)

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gm

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tal)

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(Me

diu

m)

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(Me

diu

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diu

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(Fin

e)

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diu

m

(Fin

e)

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diu

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an

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diu

m

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diu

m

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me

be

dro

ck

20

-10

0 c

m

& la

te s

no

w

me

lt

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te s

no

w

me

lt

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me

be

dro

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me

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te s

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lt

Un

co

mm

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on

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on

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hig

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nd

in

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sin

s.

3 M

ore

com

mon a

t lo

wer

ele

vations.

ESSFwcw - 17

ESSFwcw

72 Broad-leaved willowherbBoulder-dominated slopes are

uncommon and are found on steep,

upper and middle slopes. This site

unit is very sparsely vegetated. Trees

and shrubs are absent. The herb layer

is sparse. Common species include

broad-leaved willowherb, mountain

hairgrass and white mountain-

heather. The moss and lichen layer

is extremely sparse.

73 Rhododendron — Heron’s-bill mossThe 73 unit is uncommon and

represents steep boulder slopes

typically found on middle and upper

slopes. Stunted Bl is often present

as scattered individuals or in small

dense patches. Abundant white-

fl owered rhododendron dominates

the vegetation. The sparse herb

layer may include minor amounts of

wood-rush and mitrewort. The moss

and lichen layer is very sparse.

ESSFwcw - 18

ESSFwcw

74 Alaska saxifrages — Rock-mossThis site unit is uncommon and

occurs on rock outcrops. It is found

on steep upper slopes and crests. Bl

and, less frequently, Se may occur

as scattered individuals. Black

huckleberry is present in small

amounts. The sparse herb layer

is variable; Alaska saxifrage is the

most common species. Species

typical of dry sites are sometimes

present in minor amounts and include

partridge-foot and dwarf blueberry.

Lichens and bryophytes may be very

extensive. Crustose and clad lichens,

rock-moss, awned haircap moss and

heron’s-bill moss are usually the most

common and abundant species.

75 White mountain-heather — Rock-moss The 75 unit is uncommon and occurs

on rock outcrops. It is found on steep

upper slopes and crests. The tree and

shrub layers are the same as those

of the 73 unit. It differs in that white

mountain-heather is a common and

abundant species that dominates the

herb layer. Yellow mountain-heather,

partridge-foot and woolly pussytoes


The moss and lichen layer is similar

to the 74 unit.

ESSFwcw - 19

ESSFwcw

02 Bl — Rhododendron — White mountain-heatherThe 02 unit is uncommon and is

the driest forested site series. It

often occurs on gentle or steep

lower, middle and upper slopes. Bl

dominates the patchy tree and sparse

regeneration layer. Abundant white-

fl owered rhododendron with some

black huckleberry dominates the

shrub layer. The modest herb layer is

dominated by white mountain-fl ower

which is largely restricted to exposed

areas between the patchy Bl and

rhododendron. Partridge-foot, fi ve-

leaved bramble and pink mountain-

heather are present in small amounts.

The extensive bryophyte and lichen

layer is dominated by mountain leafy

liverwort and heron’s-bill moss. Clad

lichens are often present in trace

amounts.

03 Bl — White mountain-heather — Partridge-footThe 03 unit occurs infrequently

and is found on cool and steep or

gentle upper and middle slopes

and level areas. The open tree and

regeneration layers are dominated by

patchy Bl. Unlike the 02 unit, white-

fl owered rhododendron is sparse to

absent. Black huckleberry is present

in moderate amounts. The herb layer

is usually extensive and is most often

dominated by white mountain-heather.

Pink mountain-heather or partridge-

foot are usually minor components

of the herb layer. As with the 02

unit, herbs are largely confi ned to

exposed areas between the patches

of Bl. The extensive bryophyte layer

is dominated either by mountain leafy

liverwort or heron’s-bill moss.

ESSFwcw - 20

ESSFwcw

04 Bl — Rhododendron — Heron’s-bill mossThe 04 unit is common and is found on

steep upper and middle slopes. The

patchy tree and regeneration layers

are dominated by Bl. Se is often

present in minor amounts in the tree

layer. White-fl owered rhododendron

dominates the shrub layer with a minor

component of black huckleberry.

Unlike the 02 and 03 units, the herb

layer is sparse. Common species

present in small amounts include

white and pink mountain-heathers,

mountain arnica and wood-rush. The

bryophyte layer is similar to that of the

02 and 03 units.

05 Bl Rhododendron — ValerianThis common site unit is found on

gentle or steep cool middle and upper

slopes. It is dominated by Bl in the

tree and regeneration layers. A minor

amount of Se is present in the tree

layer. The shrub layer is similar to the

04 unit and is dominated by white-

fl owered rhododendron with a minor

component of black huckleberry. It

differs from the 04 unit in that the herb

layer is much more extensive and is

dominated by Sitka valerian. Other

common species include mountain

arnica, wood-rush, Indian hellebore,

mountain hairgrass, mitrewort and

one-leaved foamfl ower. Mountain-

heathers are sparse or absent. The

bryophyte layer is dominated by a mix

of heron’s-bill moss, mountain leafy

liverwort and ragged-moss.

ESSFwcw - 21

ESSFwcw

01 Bl — Huckleberry — ValerianThe zonal site series is found on gentle

or steep slopes and level areas. The

open tree and regeneration layers are

dominated by Bl with a minor amount

of Se. The shrub layer is sparse to

moderate and is dominated by black

huckleberry. Unlike the 05 unit, white-

fl owered rhododendron is sparse or

absent. The extensive herb layer is

similar to the 05 unit. Sitka valerian

is usually the most common and

abundant species. Other common

herbs include mountain arnica,

wood-rush, Indian hellebore and

mitrewort. The sparse to moderate

bryophyte layer is similar to previous

units except mountain leafy liverwort

occurs less frequently and is rarely a

dominant species.

06 Bl — Valerian — Arrow-leaved groundselThe 06 unit occupies moist soils on

middle and lower slopes, gullies and

level areas. As with other forested

site series, Bl dominates the open

tree and regeneration layers with a

minor component of Se. The shrub

layer is very sparse; black huckleberry

is sometimes present as scattered

individuals. The extensive herb layer

resembles the 01 unit but differs in

that species other than Sitka valerian

may be the most abundant species

and include arrow-leaved groundsel,

globefl ower and Indian hellebore.

Other common species include

mountain arnica, bracted lousewort,

wood-rush, mountain-hairgrass and

mitrewort. The bryophyte layer is

variable and may be sparse or very

extensive.

ESSFwcw - 22

ESSFwcw

82 White mountain-heather — Woolly pussytoes The 82 unit represents dry heaths

that are most often found at higher

elevations in the ESSFwcw on upper

slopes and crests on shallow soils.

The herb layer is dominated by

white mountain-heather and woolly

pussytoes. Other abundant species

may include pink or yellow mountain-

heather, mountain arnica and wood-

rush. Subalpine daisy, western

pasquefl ower, mountain hairgrass

and Sitka valerian are often present in

minor amounts. Mosses and lichens

are very sparse.

83 White mountain-heather — Partridge-footThe 83 heath unit occurs infrequently

and is mostly found on gentle or steep

cool upper, middle and lower slopes.

Like the 82 unit, white mountain-

heather is the dominant species. Pink

mountain-heather and partridge-foot

are present and may be abundant.

Other species present in small

amounts include mountain arnica,

wood-rush, mountain hairgrass and

black alpine sedge. The bryophyte

layer is moderately well developed

and is dominated by mountain leafy

liverwort and heron’s-bill moss.

ESSFwcw - 23

ESSFwcw

92 Woolly pussytoes — Clad LichensThis meadow unit is very uncommon

and is found on dry upper slopes,

crests and level areas. It may be

restricted to the upper elevations

in the ESSFwcw. The herb layer is

dominated by woolly pussytoes. Other

abundant species include timber

oatgrass, Sitka valerian and subalpine

daisy. Other herbs present in minor

amounts include pink mountain-

heather, dwarf blueberry and black

alpine sedge. The moderate lichen

and moss layer includes clad lichens,

juniper and awned haircap mosses,


liverwort.

93 Valerian — Showy sedgeThis is a common and widespread

meadow unit. It occurs on moist

middle, lower and toe slopes and

level areas. Occasionally, it may

be associated with the toe position

of avalanche tracks. These sites

are dominated by a mix of Sitka

valerian, Indian hellebore and

showy sedge. Other abundant

herbs may include mountain arnica,

western pasquefl ower and arrow-

leaved groundsel. Herbs present

in minor amounts include mountain

hairgrass, wood-rush and mitrewort.

The bryophyte layer is typically very

sparse.

ESSFwcw - 24

ESSFwcw

94 Alpine sedgeThis meadow unit is uncommon. It

occurs most often in late snowmelt

areas on toe slopes, level areas and

depressions. Black alpine sedge

dominates the herb layer. Few

other species are present except a

minor amount of partridge-foot and

mountain hairgrass. The bryophyte

layer is moderately well-developed

and variable. Mountain leafy liverwort

is sometimes a dominant species.

95 Arrow-leaved groundselThe 95 unit is uncommon and is found

on lower and toe slopes, level areas

and in depressions where the water

table is near the soil surface. They

are characterized by the presence of

abundant arrow-leaved groundsel,

leatherleaf saxifrage, white mountain

marsh-marigold and Sitka valerian.

Other herbs which may be present in

minor amounts include showy sedge,

common horsetail, mitrewort and

Indian hellebore. ce of showy sedge

The bryophyte layer is moderate to

extensive in area. Unlike drier site

units, mountain leafy liverwort and

heron’s-bill moss are absent. The

most common and abundant species

are peat-moss and glow moss.

ESSFwcw - 25

ESSFwcw

96 Alpine sedge — Marsh-marigoldThis wet meadow unit is uncommon.

It is found on level areas and in

depressions on organic or fi ne-

textured soils with a water table that

is near or at the surface. Unlike

the 95 unit, black alpine sedge is

often the most abundant species.

Other abundant species include

white mountain marsh-marigold,

leatherleaf saxifrage and arrow-

leaved groundsel. Globefl ower and

Sitka valerian are less common and

abundant than in the 95 unit. The

bryophyte layer is usually extensive

and is dominated by either peat-moss

or glow moss.

76 Alder — HelleboreThis avalanche track unit is very

uncommon and is found on steep

middle and lower slopes. The shrub

layer is dominated by a dense cover

of Sitka alder. The herb layer is well

developed. Common and abundant

species include Indian hellebore

and lady fern. Other common herbs

include arrow-leaved groundsel,

mitrewort, and Sitka valerian. The

bryophyte layer is very sparse.

Ragged-moss is often present in

trace amounts.

ESSFwcw - 26

ESSFwcw

77 Willow — Arrow-leaved groundselThis avalanche track unit is very

uncommon. It is found on steep to

gentle middle and lower slopes. It

differs from the 76 unit in that it

lacks Sitka alder. Instead, the shrub

layer is dominated by a moderate

cover of Barclay’s willow. The herb

layer is extensive and common and

abundant species include arrow-

leaved groundsel, Sitka valerian and

Indian hellebore. The bryophyte

layer is very sparse and may contain

trace amounts of heron’s-bill moss,

ragged-moss and bent-leaf moss.

ICHdw3 - 1

Distribution: The ICHdw3 occurs in the Shuswap and Quesnel Highlands

where it occupies valley bottoms of the Clearwater, Raft and Mad River

drainages and the North Thompson River between Clearwater and Avola

and the Barriere Lakes area. It also occurs adjacent to the north end of Ad-

ams Lake. The ICHdw3 encompasses lower elevational areas of the former

ICHmw3 (Lloyd et al. 1990).

Elevational Range: Throughout much of it’s range, the ICHdw3 occupies

valley bottoms at elevations of 450-500 m. The exception is between Clear-

water and Vavenby along the North Thompson River where it occurs above

the IDFmw2, starting at approximately 850-900 m. It borders the ICHmw3

at about 1000m on north aspects and at 100-1200m on south aspects.

Climate: The ICHdw3 is warmer than the MS, ESSF and ICHmw3 and wet-

ter than the MS and IDF. It is the driest variant of the ICH and summer soil

moisture defi cits occur frequently. It receives about 600-700 mm of annual

precipitation and snowpacks rarely exceed 75-100 cm. Spring frost events

contribute to the reduced occurrence and regeneration of Hw. On logged or

burned sites, Hw generally requires partial shade and overstory protection

to become established on zonal sites.

ICHdw3NORTH THOMPSON

DRY WARM INTERIOR CEDAR — HEMLOCK VARIANT

ATESSFMS

IDFSBPS

ICHSBS

ICHdw3

ICHdw3- 2

ICHdw3ICHdw3

Forest Cover: Mixed mid-seral stands dominate this variant. Stands are

mixtures of broadleaf and conifer species and include Pl, Fd, Pw, Cw, Ep

and At. The abundance of pure At/Ep stands distinguish the ICHdw3 from

the adjacent ICHmw3. Hw and Cw are the most common regeneration

species and would dominate climax stands. However, a fi re return interval

of less than 150 yrs has restricted development of climax stands to small

isolated occurrences. These climax stands, such as those in Sphats Creek

Provincial Park, are likely maintained by cold air drainage and the associat-

ed increase inrelative humidity.. Most ICHdw3 stands are 60-120 years old.

Fd and Pl dominate steep south slopes and Sxw is commonly associated

with seepage sites. Act is common on large fl oodplains along the North

Thompson River.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Mixed mature seral stands of Fd, Pl, Pw,

Cw, Ep and At dominate zonal sites throughout this variant. Hw and Cw

dominate the regeneration layer. The understory has a moderately well

developed shrub layer containing falsebox, birch-leaved sprirea, black

huckleberry, thimbleberry, and a poorly developed herb layer containing

twinfl ower, wild sarsaparilla, bunchberry, prince’s pine, and queen’s cup.

The well developed moss layer is dominated by red-stemmed feathermoss,

step moss and electrifi ed cat’s-tail moss. Soils are characteristically Dystric

Brunisols with Mor humus forms.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ICHdw3 occupies the valley

bottom or occurs above the IDFmw2. It always lies below the ICHmw3.

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ICHdw3

On zonal sites:

IDFmw2

• Hw and Pw absent

• pinegrass and saskatoon are common

ICHmw3

• Hw common in climax and seral stands.

• Ep and At are generally absent

• late successional stands are common and widespread

72

Asp

en

— A

wn

ed

ha

irca

p m

oss

73

He

ron

’s-b

ill m

oss —

Cla

d lic

he

ns

02

Fd

Pl —

Fa

lse

bo

x —

Pin

eg

rass

03

-YS

$A

t —

So

op

ola

llie

— P

ine

gra

ss

03

Fd

Pl —

Fa

lse

bo

x —

Fe

ath

erm

oss

01

-YS

$E

pA

t —

Fa

lse

bo

x —

Th

imb

leb

err

y

01

Fd

Cw

Hw

— F

als

eb

ox —

Fe

ath

erm

oss

04

Cw

Hw

— O

ak f

ern

05

Act

— D

og

wo

od

— L

ad

y f

ern

06

Cw

Sxw

— D

evil’

s c

lub

— O

ak f

ern

07

Cw

Sxw

— S

ku

nk c

ab

ba

ge

Wf0

1W

ate

r se

dg

e —

Be

ake

d s

ed

ge

Wf0

5S

len

de

r se

dg

e —

Co

mm

on

ho

ok-m

oss

Wf0

8S

ho

re s

ed

ge

— B

uckb

ea

n —

Ho

ok-m

oss

Wm

01

Be

ake

d s

ed

ge

— W

ate

r se

dg

e

Wm

02

Sw

am

p h

ors

eta

il —

Be

ake

d s

ed

ge

Wm

05

Ca

tta

il

Wm

06

Gre

at

bu

lru

sh

Wm

09

Infl a

ted

se

dg

e

Ws

02

Mo

un

tain

ald

er

— P

ink s

pire

a —

Sitka

se

dg

e

Ws

04

Dru

mm

on

d’s

will

ow

— B

ea

ke

d s

ed

ge

Ws

06

Sitka

will

ow

— S

itka

se

dg

e

Ws

50

Pin

k s

pire

a —

Sitka

se

dg

e

Ww

01

Po

nd

-lily

0


very

po

or

A

po

or

rich

very

ric

hm

ediu

m

CE

DB

So

il N

utr

ien

t R

eg

ime

sub

mes

ic

sub

xeri

c2 3

very

xer

ic

xeri

c

mes

ic

sub

hyg

ric

hyg

ric

sub

hyd

ric

76541

ICHdw3 - 3

ICHdw3E

da

top

ic G

rid

03

0

3-Y

S

01

0

1-Y

S

04

06

07

05

02

72

7

3

WE

TL

AN

DS

ICHdw3- 4

ICHdw3

Site Unit Flowchart

Moist to

Wet

Forests

05

Floodplain. Act(SxwHwEp) canopy. Dense shrub

layer - red-osier dogwood, thimbleberry & black

twinberry. Herb layer usually dominated by lady fern.

Mosses absent.

07

Toe slopes, level areas & depressions. Water table near

surface. CwSxw canopy. Sparse to moderate shrub

cover. Rich herb layer dominated by skunk cabbage

& horsetail. Variable moss layer.

06

Lower & toe slopes & level areas. Seepage. Cw(Sxw)

canopy. Abundant devil’s club. Rich herb layer

dominated by oak fern, foamfl ower & bunchberry.

Variable moss layer.

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

04

Common. CwSxw(FdHw) canopy. CwHw in the

regeneration layer. Sparse shrub layer. Herb layer

usually with abundant oak fern; foamfl ower often

present. Mosses abundant.

01

Common. Mixed canopy of Fd, Pl, Cw, Hw, Sxw & Ep.

CwHw in the regeneration layer. Shrub layer variable

- falsebox usually dominant. Herb layer variable -

twinfl ower, bunchberry & sarsaparilla usually dominant.

Mosses abundant.

01-YS

Common. EpAt canopy. Extensive and rich shrub layer

including thimbleberry, falsebox and Douglas maple.

Moderate herb layer including sarsaparilla, bunchberry,

queen’s cup & twinfl ower. Mosses absent.

Dry

Forests

02

Uncommon. Warm steep slopes with shallow soils.

Open Fd and/or Pl canopy. Moderate shrub cover -

spirea, soopolallie. Pinegrass-dominated herb layer.

Sparse to moderate mosses and lichens.

03Common. FdPl canopy. FdCw in regeneration layer.

Moderate shrub cover - soopolallie & falsebox. Herb

layer with twinfl ower & princes’ pine. Pinegrass absent.

Sparse mosses and lichens.

03-YSUncommon. AtEp canopy. Shrub layer dominated

by soopolallie. Pinegrass-dominated herb layer.

Sparse mosses and lichens.

Rock

Outcrop73

Exposed bedrock. Tree cover (Fd) < 10% or absent.

Sparse shrubs and herbs. Haircap moss, clad & pelt

lichens & heron’s-bill moss often abundant.

Talus

Slope 72

Substrate of rocks and boulders. Sparse aspen

often present. Shrubs and herbs sparse/absent.

Lichens and mosses abundant.


ICHdw3 - 5

ICHdw3





Wf05 Slender sedge — Common hook-mossCommon. Dominated by slender sedge. Water sedge and marsh cinquefoil may occur. Sites are often saturated. Low to mid elevation.


Ws02 Mountain alder — Pink spirea

— Sitka sedgeCommon. Characterized by mountain alder with pink spirea occurring in some sites. Water sedge or bluejoint reedgrass may dominate the herb layer. Mid elevation.

Ws04 Drummond’s willow — Beaked sedgeCommon. Predominantly Drummond’s willow and beaked sedge. Small amounts of other willow species may be present. Low to high elevation.

Ws06 Sitka willow — Sitka sedgeUncommon. Dominated by Sitka willow. Herb layer is primarily water sedge and common horsetail. Mid elevation.

Ws50 Pink spirea — Sitka sedgeUncommon. Dominated by pink spirea. Variable herb layer most often composed of swamp horsetail and bluejoint reedgrass. Mid elevation.



Wm06 Great bulrushCommon. Dominated by great bulrush (or soft-stemmed bulrush). Low species diversity. Floodwaters can be up to 1.5m deep. Low to mid elevation.

Wm05 CattailCommon. Characterized by common cattail. Low plant diversity. Beaked sedge is sometimes present. Low to mid elevation.

Wm02 Swamp horsetail — Beaked sedgeCommon. Characterized by abundant swamp horsetail and beaked sedge. Low to mid elevation.


ICHdw3- 6

ICHdw3


Shallow


Refer to the wetland section in the package of BEC materials for a more thorough characterization of wetland ecosystems.

ICHdw3 - 7

ICHdw3

Ve

ge

tati

on

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ble

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es

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s

72

73

02

03

-YS

03

01

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05

06

18

112

42

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36

20

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ICHdw3- 8

ICHdw3

He

rbs

Moss

es

& Lic

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Ab

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co

ve

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Site U

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72

73

02

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-YS

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01

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05

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72

73

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03

03

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01

04

06

07

Ta

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Ro

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Fo

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ICHdw3 - 9

ICHdw3

VX

X

VX

X

X

(SX

S

M)

SX

S

M

SX

S

MM

(SM

)

M

(SM

)

SH

G

(M)

SH

G

(HG

)

SH

G

(HG

)

HG

S

HD

UP

M

DC

R

UP

(MD

)

UP

(MD

)

UP

(MD

)

MD

U

P

LV

MD

(LV

LW

)

MD

(LV

LW

)

LV

(TO

LW

)

LV

(DP

)

LV

(LW

T

O)

LV

(TO

D

P)

Ste

ep

Ste

ep

Ge

ntle

Va

ria

ble

Ste

ep

(Ge

ntle

)

Va

ria

ble

Ge

ntle

(Le

ve

l)

Va

ria

ble

Le

ve

l

Ge

ntle

Le

ve

l L

eve

l

(Ge

ntle

)

Le

ve

l

Wa

rmW

arm

(Co

ol)

Wa

rmW

arm

(Ne

utr

al)

Wa

rm

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

(Co

ol)

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Cb

R

Mb

Cb

(Cv M

v)

Mb

(FG

Cb)

Mb

Cb

(FG

)

Mb

Cb

(FG

)

Mb

Cb

(FG

)

Fb

M

b

(FG

)

Fb

(Lb

)

Fb

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G)

FG

Lb

(Ob

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Fra

gm

en

tal

Fra

gm

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Co

ars

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diu

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ars

e

(Fra

gm

en

tal

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diu

m)

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ria

ble

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e

(Me

diu

m)

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ars

e

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e

Me

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diu

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(Co

ars

e)

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e

(Me

diu

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ars

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e

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cks &

bo

uld

ers

Be

dro

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0-2

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m

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me

be

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-10

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ep

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ter

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ottom

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odpla

ins.

ICHdw3- 10

ICHdw3

72 Aspen – Awned haircap mossThis site unit is very uncommon and

occurs on talus on steep slopes with

warm aspects. Individuals or patch-

es of At are often present. Shrub

and herb species are sparse to ab-

sent. Mosses and lichens, including

haircap moss, clad and pelt lichens

and heron’s-bill moss are often abun-

dant.

73 Heron’s-bill moss – Clad lichens

The 73 site unit is uncommon and

occurs on non-forested rock out-

crops. In general, Douglas-fi r is often

present as scattered individuals. The

shrub layer is sparse and often in-

cludes saskatoon, rose, and common

juniper. Herbs are sparse and may

include pinegrass, yarrow and other

dry-indicator species. The moss and

lichen layer is often extensive and in-

cludes clad and pelt lichens, heron’s-

bill moss, and haircap moss.

ICHdw3 - 11

ICHdw3

02 FdPl – Falsebox – Pinegrass The 02 site series is common and oc-

curs on warm steep slopes with shal-

low soils. The canopy is dominated

by Douglas-fi r and/or lodgepole pine

with Douglas-fi r regenerating in the

understory. The shrub layer has a

moderate cover and includes birch-

leaved spirea, soopolallie, saskatoon,

common juniper, tall Oregon-grape,

falsebox and rose. The herb layer is

dominated by abundant pinegrass;

minor kinnikinnick and twinfl ower

may be present. Mosses and lichens

include red-stemmed feathermoss,

pelt and clad lichens, heron’s-bill

moss and haircap moss.

03-YS $At – Soopolallie – PinegrassThe 03-YS site unit occurs on gen-

tle to steep, middle and upper warm

slopes. At and Ep dominate the

overstory. The shrub layer is rela-

tively extensive and is dominated by

soopolallie. Other common species

include Scouler’s willow, birch-leaved

spirea, tall Oregon-grape, common

snowberry, saskatoon, Douglas ma-

ple and rose. Other than a large

cover of pinegrass, few other species

are found in the herb and moss lay-

ers. Eventually, these sites will likely

reach a successional stage in which

the vegetation resembles that of the

03 site series.

ICHdw3- 12

ICHdw3

03 FdPl – Falsebox – FeathermossThe 03 is a common site series and

often occurs on level areas and

gentle to steep slopes with warm or

neutral aspects. Fd and Pl dominate

the open to closed canopy with, oc-

casionally, a minor component of Ep

or At. Fd and Cw occur in the sparse


includes moderate covers of soopo-

lallie and falsebox. The moderate

herb layer is usually dominated by

twinfl ower and prince’s pine. Unlike

the 02 unit, pinegrass is sparse or

absent. Red-stemmed feathermoss

is frequently the most abundant spe-

cies in the poorly-developed moss

and lichen layer. Other common

species include heron’s-bill moss

and pelt lichens.

01-YS $At – Falsebox – Thimbleberry

The 01-YS is a common site unit that

occurs on middle and lower gentle

slopes and level areas. It is char-

acterized by a dense canopy of Ep

and At with minor amounts of Cw and

Sxw in the regeneration layer. The

extensive shrub layer contains a wide

variety of species including falsebox,

thimbleberry, Douglas maple, soopo-

lallie, saskatoon, birch-leaved spirea

and rose. The herb layer is moderate

to abundant and is usually dominated

by a mix of bunchberry, wild sarsa-

parilla, queen’s cup and twinfl ower.

Mosses are sparse to absent. Un-

like the 03-YS unit, this site unit lacks

pinegrass.

ICHdw3 - 13

ICHdw3

01 FdCwHw – Falsebox – FeathermossThe zonal site series is common on

gentle or steep and cool slopes and

level areas. The mixed forest canopy

is composed of Fd, Pl, Cw, Hw, Sxw

and Ep. Conifer regeneration is typi-

cally dominated by Cw and Hw. The

shrub layer is sparse to moderate and

may include a wide variety of species

of which falsebox is usually the most

abundant. The variable herb layer

is typically dominated by twinfl ower,

bunchberry, and sometimes, wild sar-

saparilla. Less abundant herbs include

queen’s cup, rattlesnake-plantain, and

prince’s pine. Red-stemmed feather-

moss is the dominant species in the

moderately well-developed moss lay-

er. The abundance of Cw and Hw and

the higher covers of herbs and mosses

generally distinguish the 01 from the 03 site series.

04 CwHw – Oak fernThe 04 site series occurs prima-

rily lower and toe slopes and level

areas that may have intermittent

seepage. Cw and Sxw dominate

the canopy. Fd and Hw may also be

present. Cw and Hw usually occur

in the regeneration layer. Shrubs are

generally sparse but may contain a

several species including falsebox,

black huckleberry, rose, thimbleberry,

black gooseberry, black twinberry

and red-osier dogwood. Herb cover

is generally greater than on dry sites

and often includes abundant oak fern

and commonly twinfl ower, wild sarsa-

parilla, bunchberry, one-leaved foam-

fl ower and clasping twistedstalk. The

moss layer is well-developed and in-

cludes red-stemmed feathermoss, knight’s plume, step moss and electrifi ed

cat’s-tail moss.

ICHdw3- 14

ICHdw3

06 CwSxw – Devil’s club – Oak fernThe 06 site series includes lower

and toe slopes and level areas that

have seepage. The forest canopy

is dominated by Cw and minor Sxw.

The sparse conifer regeneration is

composed of Cw. The dense shrub

layer is dominated by devil’s club.

Other common species include black

gooseberry, thimbleberry, beaked

hazlenut and rose. The rich herb

layer is dominated by a mixture of

one-leaved foamfl ower, oak fern and

bunchberry. The moss layer is varia-

ble and may include electrifi ed cat’s-

tail, knight’s plume, red-stemmed

feathermoss and step moss.

05 Act – Dogwood – Lady fern

This infrequent site series occurs

primarily on fl oodplains. These sites

have open stands of Act and Sxw

and occasionally minor amounts

of Hw and Ep. The heterogenous

understory often contains a dense

thicket of shrubs including red-osier

dogwood, thimbleberry, black twin-

berry and rose. Lady fern with mi-

nor amounts of wild sarsaparilla and

sweet-scented bedstraw usually

dominates the herb layer. Mosses

are usually sparse or absent.

ICHdw3 - 15

ICHdw3

07 CwSxw – Skunk cabbageThis infrequent site series is found

on level sites, toe slopes and depres-

sions that have a water table near the

surface. The forest canopy varies but

is usually dominated by Cw and Sxw

with a minor component of Bl, Hw

and, occasionally, Ep. Regeneration

is primarily Cw and Hw with a minor

Sxw. Devil’s club, mountain alder,

red-osier dogwood, black twinberry

and black gooseberry are present in

sparse to moderate amounts. Skunk

cabbage is the dominant herb. Com-

mon or wood horsetail, oak fern, lady

fern and one-leaved foamfl ower are

also common. Moss cover is variable

but typically includes large-leaf leafy

moss, leafy moss, step moss and

knight’s plume.

ICHmk1 - 1

ICHmk1

ICHmk1KOOTENAY MOIST COOL INTERIOR CEDAR-HEMLOCK VARIANT

Distribution: The ICHmk1 represents a geographic area with characteris-

tics that are transitional between the MS and the ICH. It occupies north and

east facing middle slopes east of Okanagan Lake from Armstrong to south

of Kelowna and includes Mission Creek, its tributaries, and Coldstream

Creek. On the west side of Okanagan Lake, it extends from Fintry to the

Salmon River and includes Whiteman, Bouleau, Equesis and Naswhito

Creeks. In the west Kootenays it occurs in the Grandy and Kettle drain-

ages. In the East Kootenays, it occurs on the west side of the Rockies in

lower Bull, lower Elk, upper Kootenay, Beaverfoot and Kickinghorse Rivers.

In the Rocky Mountain Trench, it occurs between the Spillimacheen and

Blaeberry Rivers. In the southern Purcell Mountains, it occurs in the St.

Mary, Moyie and Yahk drainage basins.

The ICHmk1 encompasses a substantially greater geographical area than

most BGC units and may represent more than one variant. Additional fi eld

sampling is required in the East Kootenays to determine if this area repre-

sents the ICHmk1 or an undescribed variant.

Elevational Range: West of the Monashee Mountains, the ICHmk1 typi-

cally occurs above the IDFmw1, starting at 1000-1050 m on north aspects

and 1100-1200 m on south aspects. In many instances, it extends upslope

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICHSBPSSBS

ICHmk1

ICHmk1 - 2

ICHmk1

to about 1450-1550 m where it borders the ESSF. The ICHmk1 also occurs

on steep north and east slopes adjacent to broad plateaus dominated by the

MSdm1 or MSdm2.

In the West Kootenays, the ICHmk1 occupies valley bottoms at elevations of

750-900 m. It may also occur above the IDFdm2 and ICHdw starting at an

elevation that is highly variable. The ICHmk1 extends upslope to the ESSF

boundary at 1500m on north aspects and 1550 m on south aspects.

Climate: The ICH is warmer than the MS and ESSF, and wetter than the

MS and IDF. The ICHmk1 receives about 600-1000 mm of annual precipita-

tion and mid-winter snow accumulations vary between 75 and 150 cm. It

is drier, warmer and has a longer growing season than the ICHwk1 and

ICHvk1. It is generally cooler than the ICHmw and ICHdw. Prolonged sum-

mer droughts often lead to soil moisture defi cits and a short growing season

that likely contributes to the lack of Hw and Pw in the ICHmk. The general

lack of early snow cover and resulting ground freezing in the late fall may

also contribute to the lack of Hw.

Forest Cover: Mature seral stands containing various mixtures of Pl, Sxw,

Bl, Fd, Lw, Ep, At, and Cw dominate the ICHmk1. Stands are typically 18-

24 meters tall and have relatively closed canopies. Fire history and logging

have contributed to the general absence of climax stands. We believe

climax stands, if allowed to develop would be dominated by Bl and Cw with

a small amount of Sxw.

Pl and Fd are often the most dominant species on dry southern slopes. Fd

is likely the climax species in the 02 and 03 site units. Cw is usually absent

on dry sites and steep warm slopes but is common on mesic and subhygric

sites.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Mature seral stands have a mixed composi-

tion of Fd, Sxw, Bl, Cw, Lw and Pl. The regeneration layer is dominated

by Bl and Cw. The understory has a moderately well developed shrub

layer dominated by falsebox, black huckleberry and Sitka alder. The poorly

developed herb layer contains twinfl ower, bunchberry, one-sided winter-

green, queen’s cup, fi ve-leaved bramble and prince’s pine. The moss layer

is moderately well developed and dominated by red-stemmed feathermoss,

knights plume and heron’s-bill moss. Soils are characteristically Dystric Bru-

nisols and weak Humo-Ferric Podzols with a Mor humus form. Early climax

stands are often very dense on steep north slopes and toe slopes. The

resulting low light levels contribute to a sparse to nudum understory.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: West of the Monashee Mountains,

the ICHmk1 lies below the ICHmw2, MSdm2, ESSFdc1 and ESSFdc2. The

IDFmw1 always occurs below the ICHmk1. The ICHmk1 occupies a similar

elevation band as the more northerly distributed ICHmk2. Falkland and

Armstrong represent the northern limits of the ICHmk1.

ICHmk1

ICHmk1 - 3

ICHmk1

In the West Kootenays, the ICHmk1 usually occurs adjacent to the IDFdm

or ICHdw at lower elevations and the MSdm1 and ESSFdc1 or ESSFwc1

at higher elevations. In the East Kootenays the ICHmk1 is associated with

the IDFdm2, ICHmw1 and ICHmw2 at lower elevations and the ESSFdk,

ESSFdm and MSdm2 at higher elevations.

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ICHmk1

On zonal sites:

IDFmw1

• Bl and Sxw are not dominant

• Fd occurs in climax stands

• snowberry, saskatoon, oregon-grape are more common

• Py may be present on steep south slopes (non zonal)

IDFdm1 and IDFdm2

• Fd is the dominant climax tree species

• pinegrass dominates most mesic and submesic sites

• snowberry, saskatoon and oregon grape are more common

• black huckleberry, queen’s cup and fi ve-leaved bramble are absent

ICHmk2

• Lw absent in seral stands

• Utah honeysuckle generally absent

ICHmw1, mw2, mw3 and dw1 and dw2

• Hw dominates climax stands

• Pw is more common in seral stands

• western yew and oval-leaved blueberry are common

MSdm1 and MSdm2

• Cw absent on zonal and drier sites

• pinegrass dominated ecosystems are more common

ESSFwc1, wc2, dc1 and dc2

• Cw absent except where approaching ICH transition

• Fd is generally absent

• white-fl owered rhododendron and Sitka valerian are present7

2Junip

er

— S

hru

bby p

enste

mon

73

Junip

er

— C

lad lic

hens

02

FdP

l —

Junip

er

— P

inegra

ss

03

FdP

l —

Fals

ebox

04

Sxw

Pl —

Gro

useberr

y —

Tw

infl ow

er

05

FdP

l —

Fals

ebox —

Pin

egra

ss

01-Y

S$A

t —

Thim

ble

berr

y —

Snow

berr

y01-M

S$P

l —

Ald

er

— F

eath

erm

oss

01-Y

C$C

wS

xw

—

Nudem

01

Cw

Sxw

—

Fals

ebox

06

Hw

Cw

— F

eath

erm

oss

07

Cw

Sxw

—

Thim

ble

berr

y

— F

eath

erm

oss

08

Sxw

— O

ak fern

09

Cw

Sxw

— D

evil’

s c

lub —

Oak fern

10

Sxw

— H

ors

eta

il11

Cw

Sxw

— S

kunk c

abbage

12

Cw

Sxw

—

Soft-leaved s

edge

13

Sxw

— B

luejo

int

14

Sxw

— M

annagra

ss

Wf0

1W

ate

r sedge —

Beaked s

edge

Wf0

2S

cru

b b

irch —

Wate

r sedge

Wf1

1T

ufted c

lubru

sh —

Sta

r m

oss

Wm

01

Beaked s

edge —

Wate

r sedge

Wm

02

Sw

am

p h

ors

eta

il —

Beaked s

edge

Wm

05

Cattail

Wm

06

Gre

at bulrush

Wm

15

Blu

ejo

int re

edgra

ss

Ws

02

Mounta

in a

lder

— P

ink s

pirea —

Sitka s

edge

Ws

04

Dru

mm

ond’s

will

ow

— B

eaked s

edge

Ww

01

Pond-lily

0


very

po

or

A

po

or

rich

very

ric

hm

ediu

m

CE

DB

So

il N

utr

ien

t R

eg

ime

sub

mes

ic

sub

xeri

c2 3

very

xer

ic

xeri

c

mes

ic

sub

hyg

ric

hyg

ric

sub

hyd

ric

76541ICHmk1 - 4

ICHmk1

Ed

ato

pic

Gri

d

02 06

03

04

05

08

10

07

11 12

09

13 14

01

0

1-Y

S

01

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C

72

7

3

WE

TL

AN

DS

ICHmk1 - 5

ICHmk1


Talus

Slope 72

Substrate of rocks and boulders. Sparse trees

- Fd & At. Common species include juniper, shrubby

penstemon and shrubs Juniper and shrubby penstemon,

cliff & parsley ferns, reindeer and clad lichens & rock-

moss. present.

73

Exposed bedrock. Sparse trees (<10%). Common

species include juniper, spirea, kinnikinnick & cliff fern.

Mosses and lichens abundant - rock-moss, clad lichens,

felt pelt, haricap moss.

Rock

Outcrop

Dry

Forests

03Uncommon. Steep & warm or gentle slopes. FdPl (SxwBl)

canopy. Falsebox abundant. Sparse/absent pinegrass.

05Common. Steep and gentle slopes. FdPl(SxwBlLw)

canopy. Diverse shrub layer; abundant falsebox.

Abundant pinegrass (>10%).

02Common. Steep warm sites with shallow to deep soils. FdPl

canopy. Falsebox or juniper often abundant. Abundant

pinegrass (>10%).

04Uncommon. Gentle slopes & level areas. PlSxwBl

canopy. Abundant grouseberry. Abundant red-

stemmed feathermoss.

ICHmk1 - 6

ICHmk1


Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

01-YCUncommon. Gentle or steep cool slopes. CwLwPlFdSxw

canopy. Dense Cw regen. Very sparse shrub, herb

and moss layers.

01

Common. Gentle & steep slopes & level areas.

FdPlSxwCw(BlLw) canopy. Dense Cw regen. Abundant

falsebox. Sparse to moderate herb layer. Abundant

red-stemmed feathermoss.

07

Common. Mixed canopy; Sxw often dominant.

Moderate to extensive shrub layer & extensive herb

layer. Species rich; falsebox, thimbleberry, twinfl ower,

sarsaparilla, foamfl ower are common species.

06Uncommon. Gentle & steep slopes & level areas. CwHw

canopy and regneration layer. Usually sparse shrub and

herb layers. Extensive moss layer.

09Uncommon. CwSxwBl canopy. Devil’s club very

abundant. Oak fern abundant.

08Common. SxwCwBl canopy. Thimbleberry & Sitka alder

often abundant. Oak fern abundant. Foamfl ower, lady

fern & bedstraw common.

01-YSUncommon. Young seral At stands. Diverse shrub

layer; thimbleberry, saskatoon and snowberry. Sparse

herb and moss layers.

01-MSUncommon. Mature seral Pl canopy. Abundant Sitka

alder. Herb and moss layers sparse.

Wet

ForestsSxw canopy. Sparse shrub layer. Abundant bluejoint

reedgrass. Variable moss layer; peat-moss may be

abundant.13

11Cw, Sxw and Bl canopy. Variable shrub layer. Abundant

skunk cabbage. Variable moss layer.

10Sxw, Bl and/or Cw canopy. Variable shrub layer.

Abundant common horsetail. Sparse moss layer.

14Sxw canopy. Sparse shrub layer. Abundant fowl

mannagrass. Peat-moss often abundant.

12SxwCw canopy. Sparse shrub layer. Abundant soft-

leaved sedge. Sparse moss layer.


ICHmk1 - 7

ICHmk1

Shallow






Wf02 Scrub birch — Water sedgeCommon. Predominantly scrub birch along with water or beaked sedge. Often hummocked. Mid to high elevation.











ICHmk1 - 8

ICHmk1

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ck

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tcro

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sts

Talu

s

Site U

nits

72

73

02

03

04

05

01

-YS

01

-MS

01

-YC

01

06

07

No. of P

lots

31

02

89

62

39

49

63

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ICHmk1 - 11

ICHmk1

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

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ICHmk1 - 12

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Site U

nits

01

-YC

72

73

02

04

03

05

01

-YS

01

-MS

01

06

07

Ta

lus

Ro

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O

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Fo

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ICHmk1 - 14

ICHmk1

En

vir

on

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nt

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Site U

nits

08

09

10

12

11

13

14

Fo

res

ts

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(M)

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ICHmk1 - 15

ICHmk1

72 Juniper – Shrubby penstemonThis site unit is very uncommon. It

is found on exposed talus slopes

on steep, warm, middle and upper

slopes. Fd and At are usually present

as scattered individuals. Common

juniper is often abundant where

available mineral soil is present.

Herbs are sparse; common species

include shrubby penstemon, spotted

saxifrage, kinnikinnick and pinegrass.

Mosses and lichens are sparse to

abundant; common species include

clad lichens.

73 Juniper – Clad lichensThe 73 unit is infrequent. It occurs

on upper slopes and crests where

exposed bedrock is present and soils

are very shallow. The tree layer is

sparse (<10%) or absent ; Fd or Pl

may occur as scattered individuals.

The shrub layer is dominated by

common juniper and falsebox. Other

common species include spirea, sas-

katoon and rose. The sparse herb

layer includes shrubby penstemon,

spotted saxifrage, kinnikinnick and

pinegrass. The moss and lichen lay-

er is sparse to abundant and includes

awned haircap moss, rock-moss,

clad lichens and heron’s-bill moss.

ICHmk1 - 16

ICHmk1

02 FdPl – Juniper – PinegrassThis is a common site series found

on shallow to deep soils on steep and

warm, middle and upper slopes and

crests. Fd and Pl dominate the open

canopy. The sparse regeneration

layer is also dominated by Fd. The

shrub layer is often extensive and

is usually dominated by falsebox or

common juniper. Other common spe-

cies include black huckleberry, birch-

leaved spirea, saskatoon, Utah hon-

eysuckle and soopolallie. The herb

layer is dominated by a high cover

(>10%) of pinegrass. Other species

include kinnikinnick, arctic lupine and

twinfl ower. The sparse moss and

lichen layer contains clad lichens,

heron’s-bill moss, ragged-moss and


03 FdPl — Falsebox The 03 site series is uncommon. It is

similar to the 02 unit in that it is usual-

ly found on steep and warm or gentle

middle and upper slopes. Fd and Pl

dominate the open forest canopy but,

unlike the 02 unit, Bl is often present.

The regeneration layer is often domi-

nated by Bl; Sxw and Fd may also be

present. The moderate shrub layer

often contains numerous species of

which falsebox is usually the most


species include black huckleberry,

Utah honeysuckle, birch-leaved spi-

rea, snowberry and Douglas maple.

Common juniper is usually absent.

Unlike the 02 unit, the herb layer is

sparse; common species include

twinfl ower, prince’s pine, one-sided

wintergreen and pinegrass. The moss and lichen layer is usually sparse.

ICHmk1 - 17

ICHmk1

05 FdPl Falsebox — PinegrassThe 05 unit is common and occurs on

gentle or steep slopes. The canopy

is dominated by Fd and/or Pl with

minor amounts of Sxw or Lw. The

regeneration layer is usually sparse

and Fd is usually the most abundant

species. The shrub layer is often

extensive and diverse. Falsebox is

usually the most abundant species.

Other common species include Sitka

alder, black huckleberry, Utah honey-

suckle, birch-leaved spirea, saska-

toon, tall Oregon-grape, rose, thim-

bleberry and Douglas maple. A high

cover (>10%) of pinegrass dominates

the herb layer. Other common spe-

cies include twinfl ower, prince’s pine,

one-sided wintergreen and bunch-

berry. The moss layer is variable;

red-stemmed feathermoss is often the most abundant species.

ICHmk1

04 SxwPl — Grouseberry — Twinfl owerThis unit is uncommon and is found

on gentle middle slopes and level ar-

eas. Stands are dominated by a mix-

ture of Pl, Sxw and Bl. The moder-

ate regeneration layer contains Sxw

and Bl. The shrub layer is sparse to

moderate; usually falsebox or black

huckleberry are the most abundant

species. Other common species in-

clude birch-leaved spirea and black

twinberry. Unlike other units, the

extensive herb layer is dominated by

grouseberry. Other species, includ-

ing twinfl ower, bunchberry, one-sided

wintergreen, prince’s pine and pine-

grass, are usually sparse. The moss

layer is usually extensive and is dom-

inated by red-stemmed feathermoss.

ICHmk1 - 18

ICHmk1ICHmk1

01-YS $At — Thimbleberry — Snowberry This site unit is uncommon and oc-

curs on middle and lower slopes. It is

characterized by young seral forests

dominated by At. Small amounts of

Fd, Bl and Sxw may be present. The

shrub layer is diverse; thimbleberry,

saskatoon and common snowberry

are the most abundant species.

Douglas maple, red-osier dogwood,

rose and falsebox are often present in

small amounts. The herb and moss

layers are typically very sparse.

01-MS $Pl — Alder — FeathermossThe 01-MS unit is uncommon. It

occurs on middle and lower slopes

and level areas at upper elevations.

Pl usually dominates the tree layer.

Unlike other units, the shrub layer is

dominated by abundant Sitka alder.

Other shrubs are sparse to mod-

erate and include falsebox, black

huckleberry, Utah honeysuckle and

birch-leaved spirea. The herb layer

is typically sparse; common species

include minor amounts of pinegrass,

twinfl ower, grouseberry, prince’s pine

and one-sided wintergreen. The

moss and lichen layer is sparse.

ICHmk1 - 19

ICHmk1ICHmk1

01-YC $CwSxw — NudumThis is an uncommon site unit that is

found most often on north slopes in

areas adjacent to the ICHmw2. The

forest canopy is heterogenous and

includes Pl, Fd, Sxw, Cw and Lw of

which the latter two species are usu-

ally the most abundant. The most

distinctive feature of this site unit is

the paucity of understory vegetation.

Other than abundant conifer regener-

ation of which Cw is usually the most

abundant species, the shrub, herb

and moss layers are very sparse.

01 CwSxw — FalseboxThe zonal site series occurs on gen-

tle to steep, middle and lower slopes

and level areas. The canopy is a mix-

ture of Fd, Pl, Sxw or Cw often with

a minor component of Bl or Lw. The

regeneration layer is often extensive

and is usually dominated by Cw with

minor amounts of Sxw and Bl. The

shrub layer is often dominated by

abundant falsebox. Other common

species include black huckleberry,

Utah honeysuckle, birch-leaved

spiraea, and Sitka alder. The herb

layer is sparse to moderate and in-

cludes twinfl ower, queen’s cup, one-

sided wintergreen, prince’s pine and

bunchberry. Red-stemmed feather-

moss dominates the moderate moss layer. Other species include heron’s

bill moss, ragged-moss and knight’s plume.

ICHmk1 - 20

ICHmk1ICHmk1

06 HwCw — FeathermossThe 06 unit is infrequent and oc-

curs on gentle middle, lower and

toe slopes and level areas. Unlike

all other units, the tree and regen-

eration layers are dominated by Cw

and Hw. Minor amounts of Bl and

Sxw are present but Fd and Pl are

scarce or absent. The shrub layer is

usually sparse although falsebox is

sometimes abundant. The herb layer

is typically sparse; the most com-

mon species are twinfl ower, queen’s

cup, one-leaved foamfl ower, bunch-

berry and fi ve-leaved bramble. Red-

stemmed feathermoss, pipecleaner

moss, knight’s plume and step moss

often form a continuous carpet.

07 CwSxw — Thimbleberry — FeathermossThis site series frequently occurs on

middle, lower and toe slopes. The

closed canopy is heterogenous and

may contain Sxw, Lw, Cw, Fd, and

Bl. Sxw is often the dominant spe-

cies. The moderate regeneration

layer usually contains Sxw, Bl and

Cw. The moderate to extensive

shrub layer includes falsebox, Utah

honeysuckle, Sitka alder, thimbleber-

ry, Douglas maple and black goose-

berry. The herb layer is usually ex-

tensive and contains twinfl ower, wild

sarsaparilla, queen’s cup, bunchber-

ry, sweet-scented bedstraw and one-

leaved foamfl ower. The moss layer

is variable in extent; common species


ragged-moss and knight’s plume.

ICHmk1 - 21

ICHmk1

08 Sxw — Oak fern This is a common site series and oc-

curs on moist lower and toe slopes

and level areas. The closed canopy

and regeneration layer contains

Sxw, Cw and Bl. The moderate to

extensive shrub layer often contains

abundant thimbleberry and Sitka al-

der. Other common species include

minor amounts of black gooseberry,

Douglas maple, black huckleberry,

falsebox and devil’s club. Unlike dri-

er site units, the herb layer is usually

characterized by a high cover of oak

fern. Other common species which

may also be abundant include one-

leaved foamfl ower, lady fern, sweet-

scented bedstraw, fi ve-leaved bram-

ble and queen’s cup. The moss layer

is variable; common species include

red-stemmed feathermoss, ragged-moss and leafy moss.

09 CwSxw — Devil’s club — Oak fernThe 09 site series occurs infrequently

and is usually found on lower and toe

slopes, level areas and depressions

with imperfect to poor drainage. Cw,

Sxw and Bl dominate the canopy.

Cw is often the dominant species

in the regeneration layer. Unlike all

other site units, devil’s club is very

abundant (>10%). Other shrubs


black gooseberry and Utah honey-

suckle. The sparse to moderate herb

layer is often dominated by oak fern.

Other common species include one-

leaved foamfl ower, lady fern, queen’s

cup and sweet-scented bedstraw.

The moss layer is variable in terms of

composition and extent.

ICHmk1

ICHmk1 - 22

ICHmk1ICHmk1

10 Sxw — HorsetailThis site series is infrequent and is

found on toe slopes, level areas and

depressions on fl uvial deposits and

where the water table is at or near

the surface. The tree layer is vari-

able in cover and may be dominated

by Sxw, Cw or Bl which also occur

in the regeneration layer. The shrub

layer is variable; common species in-

clude thimbleberry, Sitka alder, black

gooseberry and red-osier dogwood.

The extensive herb layer is charac-

terized by a high cover of common

horsetail. Other common species

include one-leaved foamfl ower, oak

fern, lady fern, sweet-scented bed-

straw, bunchberry and queen’s cup.

The moss layer is usually sparse.

11 CwSxw — Skunk cabbageThe 11 site unit is very uncommon

and is found on level sites and de-

pressions where the water table is

at or near the surface. Open tree

layer often contains Cw, Sxw and

Bl. The shrub layer includes those

species typically found on wet sites

and include minor amounts of dev-

il’s club, black gooseberry, mountain

alder and red-osier dogwood. The

extensive herb layer is dominated by

skunk cabbage (>10%). Other com-

mon species include common horse-

tail, one-leaved foamfl ower, lady fern

and sweet-scented bedstraw. The

moss layer is variable; common spe-

cies include large-leaf leafy moss,

step moss, ragged-moss and red-


ICHmk1 - 23

ICHmk1

12 CwSxw — Soft-leaved sedgeThis site series is very uncommon

and occurs in depressions and level

sites where the water table is at or

near the surface. The tree and re-

generation layers are dominated by

Sxw and Cw. The shrub layer is usu-

ally sparse; common species include

red-osier dogwood, black gooseberry

and rose. The herb layer is charac-

terized by a large cover of soft-leaved

sedge. (>10%). Other common spe-

cies include sweet-scented bedstraw,

bunchberry, twinfl ower and wild sar-

saparilla. The moss layer is typically

sparse.

13 Sxw — Bluejoint This site series is very uncommon

and occurs on level areas and de-

pressions where the water table is at

or near the surface. The open for-

est is dominated by Sxw. The sparse

regeneration layer often includes Bl

and Sxw on raised microsites. The

shrub layer is typically sparse and

includes black gooseberry, black

twinberry and black huckleberry on

raised microsites. The herb layer is

dominated by bluejoint reedgrass.

Other common species include those

present on other wet forested sites

including bunchberry and common

horsetail. The moss layer is vari-

able and is sometimes dominated by

abundant peat-moss.

ICHmk1

ICHmk1 - 24

ICHmk1ICHmk1

14 Sxw — MannagrassThis unit is very uncommon and is

usually located in very wet forests

adjacent to wetlands. Sxw occurs as

scattered individuals or in clumps on

raised microsites. Minor amounts of

rose, black gooseberry and red-osier

dogwood may be present. The herb

layer is dominated by abundant fowl

mannagrass. Peat-moss may oc-

cupy much of the substrate.

ICHmk2 - 1

ICHmk2

Distribution: The ICHmk2 has a relatively limited distribution; it represents

geographic areas that are transitional between the MS or SBS and the ICH.

It occupies mid slopes on the west side of the North Thompson River from

Barriere to Clearwater, encompassing Peterson, Powder, Eakin, Darlington,

Lemieux and Mann creeks. At mid-elevations directly east of Barriere, the

ICHmk2 occurs between Sinmax Creek and the Barriere River. Similarly,

it occurs above the IDFmw2 on the west slopes of Raft Mountain. West of

Salmon Arm, it occupies the north and east slopes leading to Fly Hills and

Mount Hillman.

Elevational Range: The ICHmk2 occurs above the IDFmw2 beginning at

950-1000 m on north aspects and 1050-1200m on south aspects. Usually

the ICHmk2 extends up slope where it borders the ESSF at 1450-1550m.

However, in some areas the ICHmk2 occurs on steep east and north slopes

that lead to high-elevation plateaus where it borders the MS at elevations

between 1350 and 1500 m.

ICHmk2THOMPSON MOIST COOL INTERIOR CEDAR-HEMLOCK VARIANT

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICHSBPSSBS

ICHmk2

ICHmk2 - 2

ICHmk2ICHmk2


MS and IDF. The ICHmk2 receives about 550-700 mm of annual precipita-

tion and mid-winter snow accumulations vary between 75 and 125cm. It is

drier, warmer and has a longer growing season than ICHwk1 and ICHvk1.

Prolonged summer droughts often lead to short growing seasons. This

likely contributes to the lack of Hw and Pw in the ICHmk. The lack of early

snow cover and resulting ground freezing conditions in late fall may also

contribute to the lack of Hw.

Forest Cover: Mature seral stands containing mixtures of Pl, Sxw, Bl, Fd,

Ep, At and Cw dominate this variant. Fire history and logging have con-

tributed to the near absence of climax stands. Stand ages are typically be-

tween 100 and 140 years. We believe climax stands if allowed to develop,

would be dominated by Bl and Cw with small amount of Sxw.

Pl and Fd are the dominant species on dry southern slopes. Fd is likely

the climax species on the 02 and 03 site series. Cw is more common on

mesic and subhygric sites. Small pure stands of Ep and At have also been

observed on submesic and mesic sites. Mature seral stands are generally

18-24 meters tall and have relatively closed canopies.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Mature seral stands have a mixed composi-

tion of Fd, Sxw, Bl, Cw, and Pl. As stands mature and begin to open up

due to inter-tree competition, Bl and Cw quickly fi ll gaps and form a well

developed regeneration layer . The understory has a moderately well devel-

oped shrub layer dominated by falsebox, black huckleberry, Sitka alder and

birch-leaved spirea. The poorly developed herb layer contains twinfl ower,

bunchberrry, one-sided wintergreen, queen’s cup, rattlesnake-plantain and

prince’s pine. The moss layer is moderately well developed and dominated

by red-stemmed feathermoss, knights plume and heron’s-bill moss. Soils

are characteristically Dystric Brunisols and weak Humo-Ferric Podzols with

a Mor humus form. Young successional stands are often very dense on

steep north slopes and toe slopes. The resulting low light levels contribute

to very sparse understories in these stands. In contrast, broadleaf-domi-

nated stands have a well developed understory.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ICHmk2 occurs below the

ICHmw3, MSdm2, ESSFdc2 or the ESSFwc2. The IDFmw2 always occurs

below the ICHmk2. The ICHmk2 occupies a similar elevation band to the

more southerly distributed ICHmk1. Falkland and Armstrong represent the

most southern limits of the ICHmk2.

ICHmk2 - 3

ICHmk2

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ICHmk2

On zonal sites:

IDFmw2

• Bl and Sxw not dominant species

• Fd occurs in climax stands

• snowberry, saskatoon, Oregon-grape are more common

ICHmk1

• Lw present in most seral stands

• Py may be present on dry sites

• Fd is more dominant in seral stands

ICHmw3• Hw dominates climax stands

• Pw is often present in seral stands

MSdm2

• Cw and Ep absent on zonal and drier sites

ESSFwc2 and dc2

• Cw absent except in transitional areas between the ICH and ESSF

• Fd generally absent

• White-fl owered rhododendron and Sitka valerian common

ICHmk2 - 4

ICHmk2

72

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ron

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ill m

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73

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02

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nik

inn

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03

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lse

bo

x —

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eg

rass

04

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lse

bo

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ath

erm

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01

-YS

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07

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eta

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am

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06

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ICHmk2 - 5

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ICHmk2 - 6

ICHmk2


Talus Slope 72Substrates of rocks & boulders. Sparse/absent

trees, shrubs & herbs. Abundant lichens & mosses

including clad, pelt & reindeer lichens and rock-moss.

73Rock

Outcrop

Exposed bedrock. Tree cover <10%. Sparse shrub &

herb layers. Rocktripe, clad & pelt lichens, rock-moss &

haricap moss often present.

Dry

Forests

04

Common. Pl(Fd) dominate canopy. Bl & Cw in

regeneration layer. Sparse to moderate shrub layer.

Pinegrass absent. Sparse herb layer - twinfl ower,

prince’s pine & bunchberry. Red-stemmed

feathermoss often abundant.

02

Uncommon. Exposed bedrock and shallow soil.

Fd and/or Pl canopy (>10%). Sparse shrub layer.

Kinnikinnick & pinegrass (>10%) dominate herb

layer. Sparse to moderate moss and lichen layer.

03

Common. Canopy and regeneration layer dominated

by Fd. Bl & At sometimes present. Diverse shrub layer.

Pinegrass (>10%) & showy aster dominate extensive

herb layer. Sparse moss and lichen layer.

Mesic

to

Moist

Forests

01Common. Heterogenous canopy of Fd, Pl, Sxw,

Cw & Bl. Cw often abundant in regeneration layer.

Falsebox and bunchberry often dominant species.

Moss layer extensive.

01-YSUncommon. Young At and Ep canopy. Species-

rich understory. Douglas maple, spirea twinfl ower &

bunchberry abundant. Mosses absent.

04

Common. Pl(Fd) canopy. Sparse Cw & Bl in

regeneration layer. Common shrubs include spirea,

falsebox, black huckleberry and maple. Sparse herb

layer with twinfl ower and bunchberry. Moss layer

usually extensive.

Moist

to

Wet

Forests

05

Common. Sxw(BlCw) canopy. Sparse shrub layer.

Rich herb layer dominated by bunchberry, oak fern

and fi ve-leaved bramble. Foamfl ower common. Moss

layer extensive.

06Uncommon. Seepage present. FdCwSxwBl canopy.

Abundant devil’s club and oakfern dominate rich

understory. Moss layer patchy.

07

Uncommon. Water table near surface. Open Sxw

canopy. Sparse Sxw & Bl in regeneration layer.

Sparse shrub layer. Abundant common and/or wood

horsetails. Moss layer patchy.


ICHmk2 - 7ICHmk2 - 7

ICHmk2

Shallow






Wf02 Scrub birch — Water sedgeCommon. Predominantly scrub birch along with water or beaked sedge. Often hummocked. Mid to high elevation.




Ws05 MacCalla’s willow — Beaked sedgeUncommon. Characterized by MacCalla’s willow. Beaked sedge and water sedge are often common. Usually hummocked. Mid to high elevation.









ICHmk2

ICHmk2 - 9

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ICHmk2 - 10

ICHmk2

He

rbs

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hens

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Site

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72

73

02

03

04

01

-YS

01

05

06

07

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ICHmk2 - 11

ICHmk2

En

vir

on

me

nt

Ta

ble

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il M

ois

ture

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gim

e

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so

slo

pe

Po

sit

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pe

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die

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ct

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als

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cu

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e

Site

Un

its

06

72

73

02

04

03

01

01

-YS

05

07

Ta

lus

Ro

ck

Ou

tcro

ps

Fo

res

ts

VX

X

VX

X

VX

X

SX

X

(SM

)

SM

(SX

M

)

M

SM

(SH

G)

M

SM

(SH

G)

SH

G (

M)

SH

G

(M)

HG

(SH

D)

UP

M

DC

R

(UP

)

CR

(UP

)

UP

(CR

)

MD

(UP

)

MD

LV

(LW

)

MD

LV

(LW

)

LV

LW

(MD

)

LV

LW

DP

LV

D

P

Ste

ep

Va

ria

ble

Va

ria

ble

Ste

ep

(Ge

ntle

)

Ste

ep

Ge

ntle

Ge

ntle

Le

ve

l

Va

ria

ble

Ge

ntle

Le

ve

l

Ge

ntle

Le

ve

l

Le

ve

l

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ol

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ria

ble

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ria

ble

Wa

rm

(Ne

utr

al)

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rm

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

(Co

ol)

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utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Cb

R

RC

v M

v

(Cb

Mb

)

Mb

Cb

(Cv M

v)

Mb

(FG

)

Mb

(FG

Cb)

Mb

Fb

(FG

Cb

)

Fb

(Mb

Cb

)

Fb O

b

(Mb

)

Fra

gm

en

tal

Fra

gm

en

tal

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ars

e

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gm

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tal

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ars

e

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ars

e

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diu

m

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diu

m

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e

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00

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ge

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ter

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le

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0 c

m

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SM

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C

(MS

)

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MS

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C

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rce

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co

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on

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co

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on

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mm

on

Co

mm

on

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co

mm

on

Do

min

an

t C

om

mo

nU

nco

mm

on

Sca

rce


ICHmk2

72 Heron’s-bill moss — Clad lichensThe 72 unit is very uncommon and

occurs on talus slopes on steep, mid-

dle and upper slopes. Trees, shrubs

and herbs are sparse to absent.

Sxw, paper birch, Douglas maple,

black gooseberry, and spotted saxi-

frage may be present as scattered

individuals. Common mosses and li-

chens include clad, pelt and reindeer

lichens, leafy liverworts, heron’s-bill

moss and step-moss.

73 Juniper — KinnikinnickThis site series is uncommon and oc-

curs on non-forested rock outcrops

on crest and upper slopes. Scat-

tered Fd or Pl may be present. The

sparse shrub and herb layers may

contain common juniper, soopolallie,

kinnikinnick and shrubby penstemon.

Rocktripe, clad and pelt lichens,

rock-moss, juniper haircap moss and

heron’s bill moss are often present.


ICHmk2

02 FdPl — Pinegrass — KinnikinnickThis site unit is uncommon and

represents forested rocky knolls on

crests or upper slopes that typically

have signifi cant amounts of exposed

bedrock and very shallow soil. Tree

cover (>10%) varies from scattered

individuals to open stands of Fd

and/or Pl. Conifer regeneration con-

sists of sparse Fd. Common juniper,

soopolallie, tall Oregon-grape and

falsebox may occupy the shrub layer.

The species-poor herb layer is domi-

nated by abundant kinnikinnick and

pinegrass (>10%). The sparse to

moderate moss and lichen layer may

include clad and pelt lichens and red-


03 FdPl — Falsebox — PinegrassThis common site series occurs on

crests and warm, upper slopes with

shallow soils. Fd dominates the tree

and regeneration layers. Pl and At

may also be present. The shrub

layer is diverse and includes false-

box, soopolallie, tall Oregon-grape,

birch-leaved spirea, rose, common

juniper, Douglas maple, and black

huckleberry. Herb cover is mod-

erate to high and is dominated by

pinegrass (>10%) and, to a lesser

extent, showy aster. The moss layer

is poorly developed; it includes her-

on’s-bill moss, red-stemmed feather-

moss, and pelt and clad lichens. The

abundance of pinegrass and lack of

exposed bedrock distinguishes this

site series from all others in this sub-

zone.


ICHmk2

04 FdPl — Falsebox — FeathermossThe 04 site series is common and

occurs on gentle or steep and warm,

middle and upper slopes with deep

soils. Pl and, less often, Fd, are the

dominant tree species. Conifer re-

generation is sparse and is primarily

Bl and Cw. Several shrubs occur with

low to moderate covers and include

birch-leaved spirea, falsebox, black

huckleberry and Douglas maple. The

relatively sparse herb layer contains

twinfl ower, prince’s pine and bunch-

berry. Unlike the 03 unit, pinegrass

is absent. Red-stemmed feather-

moss dominates the moderately

well developed moss layer. Knight’s

plume, and to a lesser extent, her-

on’s-bill moss and pelt lichens, may

be present in minor amounts.

01-YS $AtEp — Twinfl owerThe 01-YS unit is uncommon and

represents young seral deciduous

stands dominated by Ep and At. The

dense understory is species-rich.

Douglas maple and birch-leaved

spirea are dominant species in the

shrub layer with minor amounts of

rose, thimbleberry and other species.

The herb layer is dominated by twin-

fl ower, bunchberry and blue wildrye.

Mosses and lichens are typically ab-

sent. Given suffi cient time, the veg-

etation on these sites will likely reach

a successional stage in which the

vegetation resembles that of the 01

site series.


ICHmk2

01 CwSxw — Falsebox — Knight’s plumeThe 01 site series occurs on gentle

or steep middle and lower slopes

and level areas. The heterogenous

canopy may include Fd, Pl, Cw, Bl

and Sxw. Unlike drier sites, Cw re-

generation is often abundant. The

shrub layer is dominated by falsebox

with lesser amounts of birch-leaved

spirea, black huckleberry and, occa-

sionally, Sitka alder. The herb layer

is similar to that of the 04 unit but

may be more extensive and includes

bunchberry, with minor amounts of

twinfl ower, prince’s pine, rattlesnake-

plantain, queen’s cup, and one-sided

wintergreen. The moss layer is dom-

inated by red-stemmed feathermoss

and knight’s plume with a minor

amount of heron’s-bill moss.

05 CwSxw — Oak fern — BunchberryThis common site series often occurs

on gentle, middle and lower slopes and

level areas. Sxw usually dominates the

closed canopy with lesser amounts of

Bl and Cw and occasionally minor Fd.

Bl and Cw are prevalent in the regener-

ation layer. Several shrub species may

be present in minor amounts including

black huckleberry, thimbleberry, black

gooseberry, and black twinberry. The

rich herb layer is dominated by bunch-

berry, oak fern, and fi ve-leaved bram-

ble. Other common species include

twinfl ower, queen’s cup, one-leaved

foamfl ower, false Solomon’s-seal, and

rosy twistedstalk. The moderately well

developed moss layer is dominated

by knight’s plume and red-stemmed

feathermoss.


ICHmk2

06 CwSxw — Devil’s club — Oak fernThe 06 site series is uncommon. It

often occurs adjacent to streams on

lower slopes, level areas and in de-

pressions. Seepage is present. The

mixed open canopy contains Fd,

Cw, Sxw and Bl. Cottonwood, paper

birch and trembling aspen may also

be present in minor amounts. Cw

dominates the regeneration layer

with lesser amounts of Bl and Ep.

Abundant devil’s club distinguishes

this site series from all other units.

Other common shrubs include red-

osier dogwood, black gooseberry and

black twinberry. Oak fern dominates

the herb layer with lesser amounts of

one-leaved foamfl ower, queen’s cup

and bunchberry. The moss layer is

patchy and discontinuous.

07 Sxw — HorsetailThis site series is very uncommon

and is found on level areas and de-

pressions where the water table is

at or near the surface. Stands are

typically open and dominated by

Sxw. Other common species include

Cw and Bl. Conifer regeneration is

relatively sparse and often includes

Bl and Sxw. The sparse shrub layer

may include mountain alder, red-osi-

er dogwood, black twinberry, black

gooseberry, and highbush-cranberry.

The moderate to abundant cover of

common horsetail or wood horsetail

characterizes this site unit. Several

other common species include bunch-

berry, oak fern, clasping twistedstalk,

one-leaved foamfl ower, fi ve-leaved

bramble and sweet coltsfoot. Moss cover is patchy and discontinuous.

Figure X. Distribution of the ICHmw2.

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICH

ICHmw2

Distribution: The ICHmw2 occurs southeast of Salmon Arm and north of

Cherryville in the lower Shuswap River basin including areas around Mabel

Lake, Sugar Lake and the Larch hills. Further east, it occupies middle and

lower slopes surrounding Arrow and Trout Lakes, and occur in the Lardeau,

upper St. Mary’s, Goat, Slocan, Kettle, upper Granby and southern Moyie

Drainage basins.

Elevational Range: In the north the ICHmw2 occurs above the IDFmw1

starting at about 1100 meters and in the south, above the ICHdw at 1200m.

It can occupy valley bottoms as low as 450-500m. Throughout its geo-

graphic range, its upper limits are 1450-1500 on north aspects and 1500-

1600 on steep south slopes.

ICHmw2 - 1

ICHmw2

ICHmw2SHUSWAP MOIST WARM INTERIOR CEDAR - HEMLOCK VARIANT

Climate: The ICH is warmer than the MS and ESSF and wetter than the

IDF and MS. The ICHmw2 has warm, moist summers and mild, moist,

snowy winters. Annual precipitation ranges from 600-800mm and maximum

snow depths average 75-100cm and rarely exceed 150 cm. The climate is

generally favourable for tree growth and soil moisture is limiting only on dry

sites with a southern exposure or shallow soils. Extended summer droughts

may lead to short periods of soil moisture defi cits. The ICHwk and ICHvk

receive considerably more precipitation than the ICHmw2. The ICHmw3

and ICHdw3 have cooler mean annual temperatures and experience shorter

frost free periods.

Forest Cover: Late succession stands are typically dominated by Hw and

Cw. Sxw and Bl are common on wetter site series, sites subject to cold air

drainage and at upper elevations which are transitional to the ESSF. Fire

history and human disturbance have lead to the widespread development of

successional stands dominated by Fd, Pl, Pw, Lw, Ep and At. Wildfi res are

often stand destroying, although individual large diameter Fd vets are com-

mon in many successional stands. Most stands range in age from 80-140

years suggesting a normal fi re return of similar frequency. At upper eleva-

tions and at the wetter geographic extremes of this variant late succession,

climax stands are more common and are typically 180-240 years old.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Climax stands are dominated by Cw and Hw

in the tree and regeneration layers. The shrub layer is sparse and typically

consists of scattered falsebox and black huckleberry. Herbs include small

amounts of prince’s pine, twinfl ower, bunchberry and queen’s cup. The

bryophyte layer forms an extensive carpet. Young climax stands are char-

acterized by dense coniferous stands with almost no understory vegetation.

Mature seral stands are similar to mature climax stands but contain a larger

component of the seral tree species Fd, Pm, Lw and Ep. Soils are charac-

teristically Humo-Ferric Podzols or Dystric Brunisols with Mor humus forms.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ICHmw2 often occurs above

the IDFmw1 at it’s northwestern geographic limits and above the ICHdw at

its southernmost geographic limits. It usually occurs below the ESSF wc1

or wc4 except in wetter areas where it lies below the ICHwk1. The ICHmw2

abuts the ICHmw3 at is northern limits is close to the ICHmk1 near areas

that are transitional to the MS.

ICHmw2 - 2

ICHmw2ICHmw2

ICHmw2 - 3

ICHmw2

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ICHmw2

On zonal sites:

IDFmw1

• lacks Hw and Pw

• pinegrass and saskatoon are often present

• Fd common in climax stands

ICHmw3

• Lw is absent from successional stands

ICHmk1

• Hw is absent

• Sxw and Bl are more common on zonal sites

ICHwk1

• has a herb-dominated understory with oak fern, one-leaved foamfl ower

and rosy twistedstalk

ESSFwc4 and ESSFwc1

• stands dominated by Bl and Se

• white-fl owered rhododendron and Sitka valerian are common on zonal

sites

72

Rocktr

ipe lic

hens —

Rock-m

oss

73

Huckle

berr

y —

Kin

nik

innic

k74

Blu

ebunch w

heatg

rass —

Sela

gin

ella

75

Oatg

rass —

Rock-m

oss

76

Rock-m

oss —

Cla

d lic

hens

82

Blu

ebunch w

heatg

rass —

Pin

egra

ss

02

FdP

l —

Fals

ebox —

Pin

egra

ss

03

FdC

w —

Fals

ebox —

Prince’s

pin

e01-M

S$F

dH

wC

w —

Fals

ebox —

Tw

infl ow

er

01

-YC

$F

dH

w C

w —

Nudum

01

Hw

Cw

— F

als

ebox —

Feath

erm

oss

04

Cw

Hw

— O

ak f

ern

05

Cw

Hw

— L

ady fern

— O

ak fern

06

Cw

Hw

— D

evil’

s c

lub —

Lady f

ern

07

Act —

Devil’

s c

lub

08

Act

— T

him

ble

berr

y —

Sars

aparilla

09

Cw

Hw

— H

ors

eta

il1

0C

wH

w —

Skunk c

abbage

Wb

02

Pl —

Bog r

osem

ary

— P

eat-

moss

Wf0

1W

ate

r sedge —

Beaked s

edge

Wf0

5S

lender

sedge —

Com

mon h

ook-m

oss

Wf0

6S

lender

sedge —

Buckbean

Wf1

1T

ufted c

lubru

sh —

Sta

r m

oss

Wm

01

Beaked s

edge —

Wate

r sedge

Wm

02

Sw

am

p h

ors

eta

il —

Beaked s

edge

Wm

05

Cattail

Wm

06

Gre

at bulrush

Wm

09

Infl ate

d s

edge

Wm

15

Blu

ejo

int re

edgra

ss

Ws

01

Mounta

in a

lder

— S

kunk c

abbage —

Lady f

ern

Ws

02

Mounta

in a

lder

— P

ink s

pirea —

Sitka s

edge

Ws

04

Dru

mm

ond’s

will

ow

— B

eaked s

edge

Ws

06

Sitka w

illow

— S

itka s

edge

Ws

50

Pin

k s

pirea —

Sitka s

edge

Ww

01

Pond-lily

0


very

po

or

A

po

or

rich

very

ric

hm

ediu

m

CE

DB

So

il N

utr

ien

t R

eg

ime

sub

mes

ic

sub

xeri

c2 3

very

xer

ic

xeri

c

mes

ic

sub

hyg

ric

hyg

ric

sub

hyd

ric

76541

ICHmw2

ICHmw2 - 4

Ed

ato

pic

Gri

d

72 73 74

75

7

6

06

0

7 0

8

09

10

82

05

04

01

0

1-Y

S

01

-MS

03

02

WE

TL

AN

DS

ICHmw2 - 5

ICHmw2

Site Unit Flowchart

Dry

Forests

Uncommon. Steep or gentle slopes. Soils often

shallow. Open Fd canopy. Pinegrass abundant;

minor kinnikinnick & showy aster. Variable moss layer.

02

03

Common. Steep or gentle slopes. Soils deep. Open

Fd canopy with minor Cw, Hw, Pl or Pm. Pinegrass

sparse/absent; twinfl ower & prince’s pine common.

Moderately well developed moss layer.

Abundant exposed bedrock. Trees (Fd, Pl, Cw) sparse/

absent. Shrub and herb layers sparse. Rock-moss

very abundant. 76

Minor exposed bedrock. Lower elevation/drier

geographical areas. Trees (Fd) & shrubs sparse/absent.

Poverty oatgrass abundant. Rock-moss, reindeer &

clad ichens and haircap moss abundant.

75

Exposed bedrock. Lower elevation/drier geographical

areas. Trees (Fd) & shrubs sparse/absent. Bluebunch

wheatgrass abundant. Haircap moss & clad and pelt

lichens often present.

74

Rock

Outcrops

Steep, warm areas with high insolation. Bluebunch

wheatgrass, pinegrass & California brome

abundant. Shrubs and mosses sparse/absent.

82Grassland

01-MS

Common. Steep or gentle slopes and level areas.

Mixed forest canopy - Fd, Pm, Lw, Cw, Hw, Ep. Dense

CwHw regen. Abundant falsebox. Sparse to moderate

herb layers. Extensive moss layer - feather, step and

pipecleaner mosses.

01-YCUncommon. Steep or gentle slopes or level areas.

Dense HwCw canopy; some Fd, Pm, Lw or Ep. Dense

CwHw regen. Extremely sparse understory.

Common. Steep or gentle slopes. Open Fd canopy

with minor Cw, Hw, Pl or Pm. Fd & Cw regen.

Abundant falsebox. Variable herb layer; twinfl ower

& prince’s pine common. Moderately well developed

moss layer.

03

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

73

Substrate of rocks and boulders. Cool aspect. Sparse

Ep present. Sparse shrubs layer. Herbs sometimes

abundant - kinnikinnick & twinfl ower. Pelt lichens,

haircap mosses & red-stemmed feathermoss often

abundant.

72Substrate of rocks and boulders. Warm aspect.Trees,

shrubs & herbs sparse/absent. Reindeer & clad

lichens & rock-moss abundant.

Talus

Slopes

ICHmw2 - 6

ICHmw2

Site Unit Flowchart

08

ActCwEp canopy. Red-osier dogwood, thimbleberry

or Douglas maple abundant. Sarsaparilla usually

abundant; lady fern & oak fern sparse/absent. Often

on fl oodplains.

07CwAct(SxwEp) canopy. Devil’s club, lady fern & oak fern

abundant. Often on fl oodplains.

Act

Forests

Wet

Forests10

Level areas & depressions. Water table at or near

surface. CwHw(Sxw) canopy. Shrub layer sparse; devil’s

club sometimes abundant. Skunk cabbage & lady fern

abundant.

09

Toe slopes, level areas & depressions. Water table

near surface. CwHw canopy. Sparse shrub layer.

Horsetail/scouring rush abundant.

Moist

Forests05

Uncommon; higher elevations & wetter areas. Closed

CwHw(SxwBl) canopy. Sparse shrubs. Abundant herbs;

lady fern & oak fern usually abundant. Discontinuous

moss layer.

04Uncommon. CwHw canopy. Sparse shrubs. Abundant

herbs. Oak fern usually dominant. Lady fern sparse.

Extensive moss layer.

06Uncommon; higher elevations & wetter areas. Lower

slopes to level areas; often associated with streams.

CwHw canopy. Devil’s club & lady fern abundant.

01

Common. Steep or gentle slopes & level areas. HwCw

canopy; lacking seral conifers. Dense HwCw regen.

Sparse shrubs. Moderate herb cover. Sparse or

absent oak fern. Extensive moss cover.

04

Uncommon. Gentle slopes & level areas. HwCw

canopy. Sparse shrubs. Abundant herbs. Oak fern

usually dominant. Common species twistedstalk &

foamfl ower. Extensive moss layer.

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests


ICHmw2 - 7ICHmw2 - 7

ICHmw2


BogsOrganic soils; ericaceous shrubs and peatmoss; acidic conditions.

Wb02 Lodgepole pine — Bog rosemary

— Peat-mossUncommon. Mature or stunted Pl, Se or Bl can occur in small amounts (<10% cover). Characterized by Labrador tea, Western bog-laurel, few-fl owered sedge, and bog cranberry. Abundant peat-moss. Mid to high elevation.









Wf06 Slender sedge — BuckbeanUncommon. Characterized by slender sedge, buckbean and marsh cinquefoil. Often slightly hummocked. Mid elevation.



ICHmw2 wetlands



ICHmw2

Shallow





Ws05 MacCalla’s willow — Beaked sedgeUncommon. Characterized by MacCalla’s willow. Beaked sedge and water sedge are often common. Usually hummocked. Mid to high elevation.




Ws01 Mountain alder — Skunk cabbage

— Lady fernUncommon. Dominated by mountain alder with high herb cover. Lady fern and skunk cabbage are abundant. Continuous surface seepage is common. Mid elevation.


ICHmw2 - 9

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ICHmw2 - 11

ICHmw2V

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ICHmw2 - 13

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ICHmw2 - 14

ICHmw2

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ICHmw2

72 Rocktripe lichens — Rock-mossThe 72 site series is uncommon and

occurs on steep talus slopes with a

warm aspect. Trees are absent or oc-

cur as scattered individuals. Shrubs

are sparse or absent. Herb cover is

very low and includes species such

as parsley fern that are restricted to

small pockets of humus or mineral

soil. Lichens and dry mosses are

dominant of which the most abundant

species are usually rock-moss, rein-

deer lichens and clad lichens.

73 Huckleberry — KinnikinnickThe 73 unit is uncommon and oc-

curs on steep talus slopes with a cool

aspect. Ep may occur in scattered

patches. The sparse shrub layer

may include black huckleberry, false-

box, saskatoon or thimbleberry. The

herb layer may be extensive depend-

ing on the availability of exposed soil;

kinnikinnick and twinfl ower may be

abundant. The moss and lichen lay-

er is often extensive and may include

haircap moss, pelt lichens, and red-

stemmed feathermoss. Other large

moss species may be abundant, par-

ticularly in shaded microsites. The

vegetation is usually more extensive

on talus slopes with a cool aspect

than those with a warm aspect.


ICHmw2

74 Bluebunch wheatgrass — SelaginellaThe 74 site unit is very uncommon

and occurs most often at lower ele-

vations or in drier geographical areas

of the subzone. It occurs on non-

forested rock outcrops on crest po-

sitions or upper slopes with a warm

aspect. These sites are very dry,

typically have signifi cant amounts of

exposed bedrock and very shallow

soils. Trees are generally absent but

Fd may be present as scattered indi-

viduals. Shrubs are sparse and may

include tall Oregon-grape, falsebox

and birch-leaved spirea. A moderate

cover of bluebunch wheatgrass dom-

inates the herb layer. Other herbs

include compact selaginella, worm-

leaved stonecrop, and kinnikinnick.

Haircap moss, clad lichens and pelt

lichens are often present.

75 Oatgrass — Rock-moss This site series is very uncommon

and most often occurs at lower el-

evations and in drier geographical

areas of the subzone. It occupies

non-forested rock outcrops on crests

and upper slopes. These sites are

very dry, but they typically have less

exposed bedrock and greater soil

development compared to the 74

and 76 units. Trees are usually ab-

sent. The sparse shrub layer often

consists of falsebox, saskatoon and

birch-leaved spirea. The herb layer

is dominated by a large cover of

poverty oatgrass. Other herbs may

include kinnikinnick and parsley fern.

The moss and lichen layer is often

extensive and includes rock-moss,

reindeer and clad lichens and haircap moss.


ICHmw2

76 Rock-moss — Clad lichensThis site series is uncommon. It oc-

curs on non-forested rock outcrops

on crests or upper and middle slopes.

These sites typically have signifi cant

amounts of exposed bedrock and

very shallow soils. Trees are gener-

ally absent but stunted Fd, Pl or Cw

may be present. Minor amounts of

falsebox, common juniper, saska-

toon, pinegrass and other dry species

may be present. The moss layer is

represented by abundant rock-moss.

82 Bluebunch wheatgrass — Pinegrass

This grassland unit is very uncom-

mon and is found on steep, warm

slopes. They appear to occur in the

climatically driest portions of the ICH-

mw2 in very exposed locations that

receive high amounts of insolation.

Moderate to high covers of blue-

bunch wheatgrass, California brome

and pinegrass characterize this unit.

Shrubs and mosses are very sparse

to absent.


ICHmw2

02 FdPl — Falsebox — PinegrassThe 02 site series occurs infrequently

on middle and upper slopes. Soils

are often shallow. Stands are char-

acterized by an open Fd canopy with

sparse Fd in the regeneration layer.

Several shrub species are often

present including falsebox, baldhip

rose, birch-leaved spirea and saska-

toon. Kinnikinnick and showy aster

are often present in minor amounts

but the herb layer is characterized

by abundant (>20%) pinegrass.

The moss layer is variable and may

include heron’s-bill moss and red-


03 FdCw — Falsebox — Prince’s pineThe 03 site series is a common unit

and is found on steep or gentle slopes.

Fd usually dominates the open to

closed canopy with minor amounts of

Cw, Lw, Pl and Pw. Fd and Cw occur

in the regeneration layer. The shrub

layer is usually dominated by abun-

dant falsebox with minor amounts

of soopolallie, birch-leaved spirea,

black huckleberry, Douglas maple

and baldhip rose. The herb layer

is variable in extent; the most com-

mon species are twinfl ower, prince’s

pine, rattlesnake-plantain, queen’s

cup, bracken and false Solomon’s-

seal. Unlike the 02 unit, pinegrass

is sparse or absent. The moderately

well-developed moss and lichen layer

is usually dominated by red-stemmed

feathermoss, heron’s-bill moss and pelt lichens.


ICHmw2

01-MS $FdHwCw — Falsebox — Twinfl ower

The 01-MS site unit occurs most of-

ten on gentle slopes or level areas.

These mature seral stands are vari-

able and may be dominated by a mix

of Fd, Pw, Lw, Cw, Hw or Ep. The

dense regeneration layer is dominat-

ed by Cw and Hw. The shrub layer

is patchy and is often dominated by

falsebox with minor amounts of black

huckleberry, Douglas maple, and,

occasionally, baldhip rose and thim-

bleberry. The herb layer is usually

dominated by prince’s pine, twinfl ow-

er, queen’s cup and bracken. The

moderate moss layer is dominated

by red-stemmed feathermoss, step

moss, pipecleaner moss and electri-

fi ed cat’s-tail moss.

01-YC $FdHwCw — NudumThese young climax stands are un-

common. They are characterized by

a dense, mixed forest canopy usually

dominated by Cw and Hw with lesser

amounts of Fd, Pw, Sxw and Lw. Re-

generating Cw and Hw are abundant.

Unlike other site untis, the shrub, herb

and moss layers are depauperate.

Trace amounts of western yew, false-

box, rattlesnake-plantain, prince’s

pine, queen’s cup or pipecleaner

moss may be present.


ICHmw2

01 HwCw — Falsebox — FeathermossThe zonal site series is common on

gentle or steep slopes and on level

areas. Hw and Cw form dense cli-

max stands with abundant conifer

regeneration in the understory. Un-

like the 02, 03, and 01-MS site units,

seral conifer species are sparse to

absent. Falsebox and black huck-

leberry are often present in small

patches. The herb layer is similar

to the 01-MS unit and is dominated

by twinfl ower, queen’s cup, prince’s

pine and bunchberry. One-leaved

foamfl ower is often present in mi-

nor amounts. The extensive moss

layer is composed of red-stemmed

feathermoss, pipecleaner moss and

step moss.

04 CwHw — Oak fernThe 04 site series occurs infrequent-

ly. It occupies middle, lower and toe

slopes and level areas that may have

intermittent seepage. The closed for-

est canopy and regeneration layer

are dominated by Cw and Hw. Shrub

cover is usually low and falsebox,

black huckleberry, Douglas maple,

devil’s club, black gooseberry, thim-

bleberry or Utah honeysuckle may be

present in small amounts. Unlike the

01 unit, the herb layer is moderately

abundant; oak fern is usually a domi-

nant species. Other common herbs

include bunchberry, fi ve-leaved

bramble, one-leaved foamfl ower,

queen’s cup, violets, and rosy and

clasping twistedstalks. Pipecleaner

moss, red-stemmed feathermoss

and step moss are common and abundant.


ICHmw2

05 CwHw — Lady fern — Oak fernThis site series occurs infrequently

and is found most often at higher el-

evations and in wetter portions of the

ICHmw2. It occupies moist middle,

lower and toe slopes and level ar-

eas. Cw and Hw dominate the forest

canopy and the regeneration layer.

Bl and Sxw occur less frequently.

Minor amounts of black huckleberry,

Utah honeysuckle, black gooseberry

and devil’s club are often present

in the shrub layer. The herb layer

is very similar to the 04 unit except

oak fern, one-leaved foamfl ower and

fi ve-leaved bramble are usually more

abundant. In addition, lady fern is

often abundant. The discontinuous

moss layer includes pipecleaner

moss and ragged-moss.

06 CwHw — Devil’s club — Lady fernThis infrequent site series occurs

most often at higher elevations and

in wetter portions of the subzone. It

occurs on lower slopes, toe slopes

and level areas that have persistent

seepage and is often associated with

stream channels. Cw and Hw domi-

nate the closed to dense forest cano-

py and the regeneration layer. Abun-

dant devil’s club is a key indicator of

this site series. Other shrubs include

minor amounts of black gooseberry,

thimbleberry and Utah honeysuckle.

The herb layer is similar to the 05 unit

and includes abundant lady fern, oak

fern and one-leaved foamfl ower. The

most frequent species in the patchy

moss layer include ragged-moss,

pipecleaner moss, leafy moss and



ICHmw2

07 Act — Devil’s clubThe 07 unit is very uncommon and

occurs on toe slopes and level sites

with persistent seepage. It is as-

sociated with stream channels and

fl oodplains. The forest canopy is a

mix of Cw and Act and, sometimes,

with a minor component of Ep. Coni-

fer regeneration is primarily Cw with

a minor component of Hw. The shrub

layer is dominated by devil’s club with

minor amounts of red-osier dogwood,

black gooseberry, thimbleberry and

Douglas maple. The dense herb

layer is similar to the 06 unit; oak fern

and lady fern are often the dominant

species. The moss layer is usually

sparse.

08 Act — Thimbleberry — SarsaparillaThis is a very uncommon unit. It is

found on level areas and depressions

on fl uvial materials typically associ-

ated with fl oodplains. The heteroge-

nous forest canopy is a mix of Act, Cw

and Ep. Conifer regeneration is typi-

cally dominated by Cw. The dense

shrub layer is dominated by a mix of

red-osier dogwood, thimbleberry and

Douglas maple with minor amounts

of baldhip rose and saskatoon. Wild

sarsaparilla often dominates the herb

layer. Other species include wild

ginger, sweet-cicely, bunchberry,

queen’s cup, false Solomon’s-seal,

clasping twistedstalk and baneberry.

The moss layer is sparse to moder-

ate and often consists of leafy moss,

step moss and ragged-moss.


ICHmw2

09 CwHw — HorsetailThe 09 site series occurs infrequently

on toe slopes, level areas and de-

pressions with a water table at or

near the surface. These sites are

often associated with stream chan-

nels. The forest canopy varies from

open to closed and is dominated by

Cw and Hw. Conifer regeneration

of Cw and Hw is moderately dense.

The shrub layer is sparse and often

contains minor amounts of devil’s

club, black gooseberry and red-osier

dogwood. The herb layer is exten-

sive and is dominated by common

horsetail and/or dwarf scouring-

rush. Other herbs include lady fern,

wild ginger, one-leaved foamfl ower,

bunchberry and sweet-cicely. Leafy

mosses, pelt lichens and a number of

other species are relatively common.

10 CwHw — Skunk CabbageThis uncommon site series is found on

level sites and depressions that have

a persistent water table at or near the

surface. They are associated with

stream channels or low-lying areas

where standing water is often present.

Soils are typically gleyed or organic.

The forest canopy is open to closed

and composed of Cw, Hw and minor

Sxw. Regeneration is moderate and

is primarily Hw and Cw. Devil’s club

occurs in the otherwise sparse shrub

layer. Abundant skunk cabbage and

lady fern characterizes the herb-rich

understory. Oak fern, sweet-scented

bedstraw, violets, bunchberry, clasp-

ing twistedstalk and one-leaved foam-

fl ower are often present. Mosses are

diverse and may include ragged-moss,

red-stemmed feathermoss, step moss and pelt lichens.

ICHmw3 - 1

ICHmw3

Distribution: In general, the ICHmw3 is found north of the Trans-Canada

Highway from Chase to Revelstoke. It occurs in the Shuswap and Quesnel

Highlands where it occupies valley bottoms and mid-slopes of the Eagle,

Seymour, Barriere, Adams, Cayenne, North Thompson, Clearwater, Mad

and Raft River drainages. It occurs south of Revelstoke to Galena Bay

and the upper Arrow Lake and it occurs north of Revelstoke in the lower

side drainages of the Columbia River which includes the Akikilex River and

the Crawford, Drimmie, Cranberry, Blanket and Begbie Creeks. The most

southerly occurrence is along the Shuswap River north of Sugar Lake.

Elevational Range: In many areas, the ICHmw3 occupies valley bot-

toms where elevations generally range from 450800m. In climatically drier

climates, where the ICHmw3 occurs above the IDFmw or ICHdw3, the lower

elevational limits are about 800-1000m on north slopes and 1000-1200m on

ICHmw3THOMPSON MOIST WARM INTERIOR CEDAR — HEMLOCK VARIANT

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICHSBPSSBS

ICHmw3

ICHmw3 - 2

ICHmw3ICHmw3

south slopes. In many areas, the ICHmw3 borders the ESSFwc2 at about

1450-1500m on north aspects and 1500-1600m on south aspects. In cli-

matically wetter areas, the ICHmw3 occurs below the ICHwk1 at elevations

between 800 and 1300 m.


MS and IDF. The ICHmw3 receives about 600-800 mm of annual pre-

cipitation and mid-winter snow accumulations vary between 1 and 2 m in

depth. It is drier, warmer and has a longer growing season than ICHwk1

and ICHvk1. It is moister and cooler than the ICHmw2. Prolonged summer

droughts are uncommon but may lead to a shorter growing season because

of soil moisture defi cits.

Forest Cover: Hw and Cw dominate late successional stands. Sxw and

Bl are common on wetter site series, sites subject to cold air drainage and

at upper elevations. Fire history and human disturbance have led to the

widespread development of successional stands dominated by Fd, Pl and

Pw. The occurrence of Ep and At is signifi cantly less frequent than that

in the ICHmw2 and ICHdw3. Wildfi res generally lead to complete stand

destroying events although large diameter Fd vets are often found in many

successional stands. A large proportion of the natural stands range in age

from 80-140 years. At upper elevations and the wetter geographic extremes

of this variant, late succession and climax stands are more common and are

typically 180-240 years old.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Late succession Cw and Hw stands contain

a moss-dominated understory that includes a sparse shrub layer consisting

of falsebox and an equally sparse herb layer containing small amounts of

prince’s pine, twinfl ower, bunchberry and queen’s cup. Dense seral, conifer-

dominated stands are common and have a depauperate understory. This

condition is particularly common on steep north slopes and lower slopes.

The soils are characteristically Humo-Ferric Podzols or Dystric Brunisols

with a Mor humus forms.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ICHmw3 occurs below the ESS-

Fwc2 or, in wetter geographic areas, below the ICHwk1. The ICHmw3 gen-

erally occurs above the IDFmw2 or ICHdw3, but in many wetter geographic

areas it occupies the valley fl oor. In the southeastern portion of Wells Gray

Park and in the Cariboo, the ESSFwk1 replaces the ICH mw3 at elevations

above 1250-1300m. In geographic areas thatare transitional between the

“wetbelt“ and “drybelt” the ICHmk2 may occupy slightly drier and/or cooler

areas adjacent to the ICHmw3.

ICHmw3 - 3

ICHmw3

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ICHmw3

On zonal sites:

IDFmw2

• Hw and Pw absent

• pinegrass, snowberry and saskatoon are common

• Fd common in climax stands

ICHdw3

• Hw less common in the forest canopy

• Ep and At stands are common and widespread

• late successional stands are rare

• pinegrass frequently dominates dry warm sites

ICHmw2

• Lw is a common successional tree species

ICHmk1

• Hw absent

• Sxw and Bl are more common

ICHwk1

• herb dominated with oakfern, one-leaved foamfl ower and rosy twisted-

stalk

ESSFwc4 and ESSFwc1

• Se and Bl dominated

• white-fl owered rhododendron and Sitka valerian are common

72

Aw

ned h

aircap m

oss —

Cla

d lic

hens

73

Rock-m

oss —

Cla

d lic

hens

82

Oatg

rass —

Kin

nik

innic

k02

Fd —

Junip

er

— K

innik

innic

k03

Pl —

Velv

et-

leaved b

lueberr

y —

Feath

erm

oss

04

FdP

l —

Fals

ebox —

Pin

egra

ss

05

FdP

l —

Fals

ebox —

Feath

erm

oss

01

-MS

$C

wH

wF

d —

Fals

ebox

01

Hw

Cw

— F

als

ebox —

Feath

erm

oss

06

Cw

Hw

— O

ak f

ern

07

Cw

Act

— T

him

ble

berr

y —

Sars

aparilla

08

Cw

Hw

— D

evil’

s c

lub —

Lady f

ern

09

Act —

Dogw

ood —

Hors

eta

il10

Cw

Hw

— H

ors

eta

il11

Cw

Hw

— S

kunk c

abbage

12

Sb —

Labra

dor

tea —

Peat-

moss

13

Hw

Sxw

— L

abra

dor

tea —

Peat-

moss

Wb

02

Pl —

Bog r

osem

ary

— P

eat-

moss

Wb

07

Pl —

Wate

r sedge —

Peat-

moss

Wf0

1W

ate

r sedge —

Beaked s

edge

Wf0

3W

ate

r sedge —

Peat-

moss

Wf0

5S

lender

sedge —

Com

mon h

ook-m

oss

Wf0

6S

lender

sedge —

Buckbean

Wf1

1T

ufted c

lubru

sh —

Sta

r m

oss

Wm

01

Beaked s

edge —

Wate

r sedge

Wm

02

Sw

am

p h

ors

eta

il —

Beaked s

edge

Wm

04

Com

mon s

pik

e-r

ush

Wm

05

Cattail

Wm

09

Infl ate

d s

edge

Wm

15

Blu

ejo

int re

edgra

ss

Ws01

Mounta

in a

lder

— S

kunk c

abbage —

Lady f

ern

Ws02

Mounta

in a

lder

— P

ink s

pirea —

Sitka s

edge

Ws04

Dru

mm

ond’s

will

ow

— B

eaked s

edge

Ws06

Sitka w

illow

— S

itka s

edge

Ws50

Pin

k s

pirea —

Sitka s

edge

Ww

01

Pond-lily

0


very

po

or

A

po

or

rich

very

ric

hm

ediu

m

CE

DB

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il N

utr

ien

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ime

sub

mes

ic

sub

xeri

c2 3

very

xer

ic

xeri

c

mes

ic

sub

hyg

ric

hyg

ric

sub

hyd

ric

76541ICHmw3 - 4

ICHmw3

Ed

ato

pic

Gri

d

06

12

1

3

11

07

10

82

03

04

05

08

0

9

01

0

1-M

S

72 73 02

WE

TL

AN

DS

ICHmw3 - 5

ICHmw3

Site Unit Flowchart

Rock

Outcrop

Exposed bedrock. Tree cover < 10%; Fd & Pl. Shrub

and herb layers sparse; common juniper, kinnikinnick &

cliff fern often present. Rock-moss, clad lichens felt pelt &

haircap moss often abundant.

73

GrasslandWarm steep slopes with abundant insolation. Trees

& shrubs sparse/absent. Herb layer with abundant

poverty oatgrass. Lichens & mosses common. 82

Dry

Forests

Uncommon. Steep or gentle slopes. Open Fd canopy.

Common juniper & kinnikinnick abundant. Moss & lichen

layer variable.02

Very uncommon; most extensive in Blue River area on

fl uvial glacial materials. Pl canopy. Abundant (>10%)

velvet-leaved blueberry. Some falsebox & spirea.

Cow-wheat often present.

03

Uncommon. Steep warm slopes with abundant

insolation. FdPl canopy & Fd regen. Sparse shrub

layer. Pinegrass-dominated understory (>10%). 04

Common. Gentle or steep warm slopes. FdPl canopy &

Cw regen. Falsebox usually dominant shrub. Herbs include

twinfl ower, prince’s pine & queen’s cup. Red-stemmed

feathermoss common.

05

Substrate of rocks and boulders. Sparse tree,

shrub & herb layers; falsebox & cliff & parsley ferns

often present. Rock-moss, heron’s-bill moss, reindeer

lichens & clad lichens often abundant.

72Talus

Slope

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

Gentle & steep slopes. Mixed FdCwHw(Sxw) canopy

& CwHw regen. Falsebox usually dominant shrub.

Herbs similar to 05. Moss layer more extensive than

that on drier sites.

01-MS

Gentle and steep slopes. HwCw canopy; Fd is sparse/

absent. HwCw regen. Sparse shrub & herb layer similar to

01-MS. Extensive moss layer dominated by red-stemmed

feathermoss & step moss.

01

Gentle middle to toe slopes & level areas. CwHw canopy

& dense CwHw regen. Sparse shrub layer. Extensive

herb layer with oak fern, foamfl ower, sarsaparilla,

bunchberry & queen’s cup. Extensive moss layer.

06

Gentle or steep warm slopes. FdPl canopy & Cw

regen. Falsebox usually dominant shrub. Herbs include

twinfl ower, prince’s pine & queen’s cup. Red-stemmed

feathermoss common.

05

ICHmw3 - 6

ICHmw3

Site Unit Flowchart

Infrequent. Level areas and depressions. Water table

near surface. CwHw canopy. Variable shrub layer.

Abundant skunk cabbage (>10%) and lady fern.

Common. Lower slopes to level areas. Seepage. CwHw

canopy. Abundant devil’s club (>10%). Extensive

herb layer with abundant lady fern.

Infrequent. Toe slopes, level areas and depressions.

Water table near surface. CwHw canopy. Variable

shrub layer. Abundant common horsetail (>20%).10

08

11

Very uncommon - Blue River area. Depressions on

Ob. Water table near surface. Open Sb canopy.

Abundant Labrador tea (>10%). Variable herb layer.

Peat-moss usually abundant.

12

Very uncommon. Depressions on Ob. Water table

near surface. Open Pl, Pm & Cw canopy. Abundant

Labrador tea (>10%). Rich herb layer. Abundant

peat-moss common.

13

Moist

to

Wet

Forests

Floodplain. Circum-mesic. CwActEp canopy. Shrub

layer often has abundant thimbleberry. Sarsaparilla &

wild ginger dominate extensive herb layer. 07

Floodplain. Subhygric to hygric. Act(Sxw) canopy.

Dense shrub layer dominated by red-osier dogwood.

Herb layer contains horsetail & bluejoint.09

Flood-

plains


ICHmw3 - 7

ICHmw3











Wb07 Lodgepole pine — Water sedge

— Peat-mossUncommon. Pl, Sx and Bl are present (<10% cover). Labrador tea dominates along with an abundance of water sedge. Peat-moss is plentiful. Mid to high elevation.


Wm04 Common spike-rushUncommon. Dominated by common spike-rush. Low plant diversity. Low to mid elevation.



ICHmw3 - 8

ICHmw3











Shallow






ICHmw3 - 9

ICHmw3V

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73

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mounta

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Labra

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ICHmw3 - 10

ICHmw3

He

rbs

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es

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un

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72

73

Site U

nits

82

02

03

04

05

01

-MS

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one-leaved foam

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lady fern

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inger

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wild

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pin

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ICHmw3 - 11

ICHmw3V

eg

eta

tio

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ab

le

Tre

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Sh

rub

s

06

07

36

22

1N

o. of P

lots

Site U

nits

Fo

res

ts

08

09

10

11

12

13

43

15

24

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ICHmw3 - 12

ICHmw3

He

rbs

Moss

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hens

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un

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nce

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ve

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Site

Un

its

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

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ICHmw3 - 13

ICHmw3E

nv

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72

73

82

03

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ICHmw3 - 14

ICHmw3

En

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ICHmw3 - 15

ICHmw3

72 Awned haircap moss — Clad lichensThis is an very uncommon unit. It

is found on exposed talus on warm,

steep, middle and upper slopes.

Trees, including Fd or Ep, may oc-

cur as scattered individuals. The

shrub layer is usually sparse; false-

box is sometimes present. Herbs are

sparse or absent; the most common

species are cliff and parsley ferns.

Lichens and mosses are often abun-

dant and dominate the rocky sub-

strate; the most common species are

rock-moss, heron’s-bill moss, rein-

deer lichens and clad lichens.

73 Rock-moss — Clad lichens

The 73 site unit is very uncommon.

It occurs on warm, middle and up-

per slopes and crests with exposed

bedrock. Tree cover is sparse (<10%

cover) or absent; Fd and Pl are the

most common species. The shrub

layer is usually sparse although com-

mon juniper may be abundant. Other

common species include birch-leaved

spirea and tall Oregon-grape. Herbs

are typically sparse of which the most

common species are kinnikinnick and

cliff fern. Minor amounts of poverty

oatgrass and bluebunch wheatgrass

are sometimes present. Mosses

and lichens are abundant and cover

much of the exposed bedrock. The

most common and abundant species

include rock-moss, clad lichens, felt

pelt and awned haircap moss.

ICHmw3 - 16

ICHmw3

82 Oatgrass — KinnikinnickGrasslands are uncommon in the

ICHmw3. They have been encoun-

tered in the Adams Lake area on

warm, middle and upper slopes that

are subject to high levels of insola-

tion. Trees are absent and shrubs

are very sparse; common juniper,

baldhip rose and tall Oregon-grape

may occur as scattered individuals.

The herb layer is dominated by a

high cover of poverty oatgrass. Kin-

nikinnick may be abundant but other

herbs, including bluebunch wheat-

grass, are sparse. Reindeer lichens,

felt pelt, clad lichens, rock-moss and

awned haircap moss are common.

02 Fd — Juniper — KinnikinnickThe 02 unit is very uncommon. It oc-

curs on steep and warm or gentle up-

per and middle slopes. Fd dominates

the open forest canopy. Fd and, to

a lesser extent, Cw, occur in the

regeneration layer. The moderate

shrub layer is dominated by common

juniper. Kinnikinnick dominates the

herb layer; other species, including

pinegrass, may be present in minor

amounts. The moss and lichen layer

is highly variable; common species

include clad lichens, red-stemmed

feathermoss and heron’s-bill moss.

ICHmw3 - 17

ICHmw3

03 Pl — Velvet-leaved blueberry — Feathermoss The 03 is a very uncommon site se-

ries that occurs east of Clearwater

and north of Vavenby and is most

extensive in the Blue River area. It

occurs on coarse glaciofl uvial mate-

rials. Pl dominates the forest cano-

py. Pw or Hw are usually the most

abundant species in the regeneration

layer. Unlike all other site units, the

shrub layer is characterized by abun-

dant (>10%) velvet-leaved blueberry.

Other common shrubs include false-

box and birch-leaved spirea. The

sparse to moderate herb layer con-

tains twinfl ower, prince’s pine, bunch-

berry and cow-wheat. The moss and

lichen layer is sparse to abundant;

red-stemmed feathermoss is often

the most abundant species.

04 FdPl — Falsebox — PinegrassThe 04 unit is uncommon. It is usual-

ly restricted to dry, warm slopes that

receive large amounts of insolation.

Pl and Fd dominate the tree layer. Fd

occurs in the regeneration layer. The

shrub layer is typically sparse and

includes tall Oregon-grape, baldhip

rose, common juniper, falsebox and

birch-leaved spirea. Unlike other site

units, the herb layer is dominated by

a high cover (> 10%) of pinegrass.

Other herbs are sparse and include

kinnikinnick, twinfl ower and prince’s

pine. The moss and lichen layer is

sparse to moderate; common species


heron’s-bill moss and clad lichens.

ICHmw3 - 18

ICHmw3

05 FdPl — Falsebox — FeathermossThis site series is common and oc-

curs on steep and warm or gentle

middle and upper slopes. The tree

layer is dominated by Fd or a mix-

ture of Fd and Pl. A minor amount

of Cw or Ep may be present. The

sparse regeneration layer is often

dominated by Cw. Minor amounts of

Fd, Pw, Hw or Sxw may be present.

The moderate to abundant shrub

layer is usually dominated by false-

box. Other common shrubs include

tall Oregon-grape, birch-leaved spi-

rea, black huckleberry and Douglas

maple. The sparse to moderate herb

layer is species poor; common spe-

cies include twinfl ower, prince’s pine

and queen’s cup. The moderate to

abundant moss layer is often domi-

nated by red-stemmed feathermoss.

01-MS $CwHwFd — FalseboxThis site unit occurs most often on

gentle middle slopes or level areas. It

may also occur on steep, cool slopes.

Unlike the 05 unit, the tree layer is a

variable mixture of Fd, Cw and Hw.

Ep and Sxw are sometimes present.

The moderate regeneration layer is

dominated by Cw and Hw. The shrub

layer is similar to the 05 unit and is

usually dominated by falsebox. Ther

herb layer is also similar to the 05

unit and includes prince’s pine, twin-

fl ower, bunchberry and queen’s cup.

The moss layer is dominated by red-

stemmed feathermoss but other spe-

cies, including step-moss and electri-

fi ed cat’s-tail moss, are usually more

abundant than that found on drier site

units.

ICHmw3 - 19

ICHmw3

01 HwCw — Falsebox — Feathermoss

The zonal site series is most common

on middle and lower slopes and level

areas. The dense tree layer is domi-

nated by Cw and Hw. Unlike previous

units, Fd is either absent or a minor

component of the tree layer. The mod-

erate regeneration layer is dominated

by Hw and Cw. Shrubs are relatively

sparse and include falsebox, black

huckleberry and oval-leaved blueber-

ry. The sparse to moderate herb layer

is similar to the 01-MS. The moss lay-

er is often extensive and is dominated

by a mixture of red-stemmed feather-

moss, step moss, knight’s plume,

pipecleaner moss and electrifi ed cat’s-

tail moss.

06 CwHw — Oak fernThe 06 unit is common on gentle mid-

dle, lower and toe slopes and level

areas which may have intermittent

seepage. The dense forest canopy

and moderate regeneration layer are

dominated by Cw and Hw. Sxw may

also be present. The shrub layer is

typically sparse; common species


falsebox, black huckleberry, oval-

leaved blueberry and devil’s club.

Unlike the 01 unit, the herb layer is

moderate to extensive and is often

dominated by a mixture of bunch-

berry, queen’s cup, wild sarsaparilla,

one-leaved foamfl ower and oak fern.

The moss layer is similar to the 01

unit and is usually dominated by step

moss or red-stemmed feathermoss.

ICHmw3 - 20

ICHmw3

07 CwAct — Thimbleberry — SarsparillaThe 07 unit is a very uncommon

site unit. It occurs on mesic-subhy-

gric fl oodplains with a forest canopy

dominated by Cw, Act and Ep. The

regeneration layer contains a moder-

ate amount of Cw. The shrub layer is

sparse to moderate; thimbleberry is

often abundant. The extensive herb

layer is dominated by wild sarsapa-

rilla and wild ginger. Other species


bunchberry, queen’s cup, one-leaved

foamfl ower and lady fern. The moss

layer is sparse to absent.

08 CwHw — Devil’s club — Lady fernThis site unit occurs frequently on

gentle lower and toe slopes and level

areas that have intermittent to persist-

ent seepage. The dense canopy and

sparse to moderate regeneration layer

are dominated by Cw and Hw. Sxw is

sometimes a signifi cant component of

the forest canopy. Unlike all other site

units, the shrub layer is dominated by a

high cover (>10%) of devil’s club. Other

common shrubs include oval-leaved

blueberry, Douglas maple, black goose-

berry and thimbleberry. The herb layer

is usually more extensive than drier units

and often contains a signifi cant amount

of lady fern. Other common species in-

clude oak fern, one-leaved foamfl ower,

wild sarsaparilla, queen’s cup, twinfl ow-

er and bunchberry. The moss layer is highly variable; common species include

step moss, red-stemmed feathermoss and electrifi ed cat’s-tail moss.

ICHmw3 - 21

ICHmw3

09 Act — Dogwood — HorsetailThe 09 unit is uncommon. It is usu-

ally found on subhygric or hygric

fl oodplains. The forest canopy is

patchy; Act is usually the dominant

species with a minor component of

Sxw or Ep. The shrub layer is often

very dense and is dominated by red-

osier dogwood. Other common spe-

cies include thimbleberry and Sitka

alder. The sparse to moderate herb

layer includes bluejoint reedgrass,

common horsetail and lady fern. The

bryophyte layer is sparse to absent.

10 CwHw — HorsetailThe 10 unit occurs infrequently and

is found on toe slopes, level areas

and depressions where the water ta-

ble is near the surface. The canopy

is dominated by Cw and Hw. The

regeneration layer is sparse. The

sparse to moderate shrub layer is

variable; Sitka alder, red-osier dog-

wood, black gooseberry, thimble-

berry and baldhip rose are common

species. The extensive herb layer is

dominated by a high cover (>20%)

of common horsetail. Other species

include those typically associated

with moist to wet sites including lady

fern, oak fern and one-leaved foam-

fl ower. The moss layer is variable;

common species include large-leaf

leafy moss, knight’s plume and red-


ICHmw3 - 22

ICHmw3

11 CwHw — Skunk cabbageThis site series is very uncommon

and is found on level areas and de-

pressions on organic or fl uvial sub-

strates where the water table is at or

near the surface. It is typically richer

and wetter than the 10 unit. The

CwHw forest canopy is usually open;

Sxw and Bl may also be present. The

regeneration layer is sparse and Hw

is usually the most abundant species.

The shrub layer is variable; western

yew, oval-leaved blueberry, black

gooseberry, devil’s club, red-osier

dogwood and mountain alder are

common species. Unlike other units,

the rich and extensive herb layer is

dominated (>10% cover) by skunk

cabbage. Other common species

include common horsetail, lady fern, oak fern and other species typically

associated with moist to wet forests. The moss layer is highly variable.

12 Sb — Labrador tea — Peat-mossThis site series is very uncommon

and is only known from the Blue

River area. It occurs in cold, wet de-

pressions or level areas on organic

blankets where the water table is

near the surface. Sb forms a very

open forest canopy. The shrub layer

is dominated by a high cover (>10%)

of Labrador tea. The herb layer is

variable; common species include

creeping-snowberry, bog cranberry,

water sedge, western bog-laurel and

bunchberry. The moss layer is often

dominated by peat-moss.

ICHmw3 - 23

ICHmw3

13 HwSxw — Labrador tea — Peat-moss The 13 site unit is very similar to site

unit 12 and also very uncommon. It

is found on wet level areas or in de-

pressions on organic blankets where

the water table is near the surface.

Unlike the preceding site series, the

very open forest canopy is a mixture

of Pl, Pw and Cw. The shrub layer is

dominated by a large cover (>10%)

of Labrador tea. The rich herb layer

includes creeping-snowberry, west-

ern bog-laurel, few-fl owered sedge

and bog cranberry. Much of the sub-

strate is covered by peat-moss.

ICHvk1 - 1

ICHvk1

ICHvk1

MICA VERY WET COOL

INTERIOR CEDAR — HEMLOCK VARIANT

Distribution: Occurs in the southern Cariboo Mountain and the northern

Monashee and Selkirk Mountains. The ICHvk1 variant extends upstream

from the ICHwk1 in the valley bottoms and sidewalls of the Hobson, Azure,

Murtle and upper North Thompson river drainages, and their tributaries. It is

also located on the west side of the Monashee Mountains, and in the Upper

Adams, Seymour, Perry and Upper Shuswap rivers, and their tributaries.

In the former Nelson Region it occurs in the Columbia drainage north of

Goldstream to Mica Creek, the upper ends of Downie and Kirkup creeks

and Jrdan, Wolsey, and Tanagers Rivers. It also occurs south of Glacier

National Park in the Incomapleux and Kellie creek drainages.

Elevational Range: In upper drainages where the ICHvk1 occupies the

valley bottom, the lower elevation ranges from 900 –1200 m valleys. In loca-

tions where it occurs on mid slopes above the ICHwk1 it generally starts at

1000-1100 m on north slopes and 1100-1200 m on south slopes. The upper

elevation occurs where the ICHvk1 grades into the ESSF at 1250-1350 on

north aspects and 1400-1450 m on south aspects.

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICHSBPSSBS

ICHvk1

ICHvk1 - 2

ICHvk1


IDF and MS. The ICHvk is the wettest and coolest ICH subzone in the KFR.

It has substantial snow accumulations and a moisture surplus is common

during the growing season. Mean annual precipitation is estimated to be

1400-1800 mm and maximum snow depths average 2-3 meters.

Forest Cover : This biogeoclimatic unit is characterized by many of the

oldest stands encountered in the province’s southern interior. Stands are

commonly dominated by Cw with 1-2 meter diameters. Hw, Sxw and Bl are

commonly associated with these Cw dominated stands. In areas subject

to old air drainage Sxw and Bl are more abundant than Hw and Cw which

are less tolerant of late spring frost events. Tree diameters are large not

only because of the productive nature of this subzone but more signifi cantly

because of the long fi re return interval, which is estimated to be in excess

of 500-1000 years. The humid valley fl oors consistently support the oldest

stands. Successional stands are generally dominated by the same shade

tolerant species that form climax stands. Fd and Pw have occasionally

been observed on steep south slopes, but snow breakage

And intolerance to heavy vegetation competion that follows disturbance lim-

its the survival and vigor of these 2 species. Hw most commonly dominates

the drier site series in this BGC unit.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: The location of this subzone in steep moun-

tainous terrain that receives the greatest snow accumulations encountered

in the southern interior results in a landscape that is dominated by ava-

lanche tracks. Stable forest communities are dominated by Cw , Sxw and

varying amounts of Hw. The understory is dominated by Devil’s club and

the 2 large ferns lady fern, and spiny wood fern. The intervening avalanche

slopes are dominated by Sitka alder with lush understory lady fern, spiny

wood fern, oak fern and Devil’s club. The moss layer is sparse and poorly

represented. The soils are derived from colluvial blankets with a high rock

content. The soil development is chararistically Humo-ferric Podzols or

organic enriched Sombric and Melanic brunisols.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ICHwk1 often occurs below the

ICHvk1, while upper elevations merge with one of 3 ESSF biogeoclimatic

units; the ESSFwc2, ESSFwc4 or the ESSFvc.

ICHvk1 - 3

ICHvk1

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ICHvk1

On zonal sites:

ICHwk1

• devil’s club, lady fern, and spiny wood fern less common

• avalanche track less common (non zonal)

ESSFvc

• Se, Bl and Hm dominate the forest canopy

• white-fl owered rhododenron and Sitka valerian common

ESSFwc2 and wc4

• Se and Bl dominate the forest canopy


72

Rocktr

ipe lic

hens —

Rock-m

oss

73

Rock-m

oss —

Cla

d lic

hens

02

Hw

Cw

— F

eath

erm

oss

03

Hw

Cw

— A

zale

a —

Feath

erm

oss

04

Cw

Hw

— O

ak f

ern

05

Cw

Hw

— S

pin

y w

ood f

ern

— O

ak f

ern

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ICHvk1 - 5

ICHvk1

Dry

Forests

04

Very common. Steep or gentle slopes. HwCw canopy and

regeneration layer. Moderate shrub layer with falsebox &

black huckleberry. Moderate and rich herb layer; most

abundant species include oak fern, queen’s cup, one-

sided wintergreen, rattlesnake-plantain, foamfl ower &

twistedstalk. Extensive moss layer.

02

Uncommon. Steep slopes & crests with exposed

bedrock & shallow soils. Hw, Sxw, Cw or Bl in canopy

(>10%). Sparse shrub & herb layers. Moss layer

extensive.

03

Common. Middle & upper slopes & crests. Hw(Cw)

canopy. Dense HwCw regeneration layer. Shrub layer

sparse. Herb layer dominated by fi ve-leaved bramble

& bunchberry. Extensive moss layer.

72

Substrate of rocks & boulders. Tree, shrub & herb

layers sparse or absent. Moss & lichen layer very

abundant; common species include rock-moss, clad,

foam, reindeer & rocktripe lichens & haircap & heron’s-

bill mosses.

Talus

Slope

73

Exposed bedrock. Tree cover (Sxw Bl) <10% or

absent. Sparse shrub and herb layers. Moss and

lichen layer extensive & includes rock-moss, haircap

mosses & clad lichens.

Rock

Outcrop

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

06

Uncommon. Cold air drainages. Sxw(Bl) canopy.

Extensive shrub layer with thimbleberry, black

huckleberry, black gooseberry & black twinberry.

Extensive herb layer with abundant oak fern, lady fern,

spiny wood fern, foamfl ower & bunchberry. Extensive

bryophyte layer.

05

Common. Steep or gentle slopes. HwCw canopy.

Moderate shrub cover includes minor amounts of

devil’s club, false azalea & Douglas maple. Moderate

herb cover similar to 04 unit but also with common to

abundant lady fern and spiny wood fern. Extensive

moss layer.

04

Very common. Steep or gentle slopes. HwCw canopy and

regeneration layer. Moderate shrub layer with falsebox &

black huckleberry. Moderate and rich herb layer; most

abundant species include oak fern, queen’s cup, one-

sided wintergreen, rattlesnake-plantain, foamfl ower &

twistedstalk. Extensive moss layer.


ICHvk1 - 6

ICHvk1

74

Very uncommon. Gentle or steep middle, lower &

toe slopes. Shrub-dominated. Thimbleberry very

abundant with red-osier dogwood, elderberry & black

gooseberry. Rich, variable herb layer usually dominated

by lady fern.

Common. Steep middle lower and toe slopes. Shrub-

dominated. Abundant Sitka alder. Herb layer

dominated by lady fern or spiny wood fern.

76

Common. Steep or gentle middle slopes. Shrub-

dominated. Abundant devil’s club and Sitka alder.

Herb layer dominated by oak fern. 77

Very uncommon. Gentle lower & toe slopes & level

areas. Herb-dominated. Abundant hellebore, valerian

& bluejoint. 78

Very uncommon. Gentle middle, lower & toe slopes.

Shrub-dominated. Willow very abundant. Herb layer

dominated by lady fern.75

Avalanche

Tracks

Wet

Forests

08

Uncommon. Lower slopes & level areas on fl uvial

materials. Water table at or near surface. Sxw(Bl)

canopy. Sparse/absent devil’s club. Common shrubs

include red-osier dogwood, cranberry, twinberry,

thimbleberry & gooseberry. Abundant horsetail.

Extensive bryophyte layer.

09

Uncommon. Toe slopes, level areas & depressions.

Water table at or near surface. HwCw(Sxw) canopy.

Sparse shrub layer. Abundant skunk cabbage and

bulrush. Peat-moss often dominates the moss layer.

10

Very uncommon. Level areas and depressions. Water

table at or above the surface. Sxw canopy. Shrub layer

often with abundant mountain alder. Abundant small-

leaved bulrush. Moss layer sparse.

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests 07Uncommon. Cold air drainages. Sxw(BlCw) canopy.

Abundant devil’s club (>10%). Extensive herb layer

similar to 01 unit. Extensive bryophyte layer.

01

Very common. Gentle or cool & steep slopes.

HwCw(Sxw) canopy. Abundant devil’s club (>10%).

Extensive herb layer similar to 05 unit. Sparse to

moderate bryophyte layer.


ICHvk1 - 7

ICHvk1




















ICHvk1 - 8

ICHvk1








Shallow


ICHvk1 - 9

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ICHvk1 - 11

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ICHvk1 - 12

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lobi

um a

ngus

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ium

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fi re

weed

Ste

reoc

aulo

n sp

.fo

am

lic

hens

Cla

dina

sp

.re

indeer

lichens

Um

bilic

aria

sp

.ro

cktr

ipe lic

hens

Rac

omitr

ium

sp.

*ro

ck-m

oss

Cla

doni

a sp

.cla

d lic

hens

Pol

ytric

hum

juni

perin

um*

*ju

nip

er

haircap m

oss

Pol

ytric

hum

pili

feru

maw

ned h

aircap m

oss

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tidia

delp

hus

lore

us*

lanky m

oss

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tiger

a sp

.*

**

�pelt lic

hens

Bar

bilo

phoz

ia s

p.

**

�le

afy

liv

erw

ort

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ranu

m s

p.

�*

�hero

n’s

-bill

moss

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ocom

ium

spl

ende

ns*

ste

p m

oss

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ium

cris

ta-c

astre

nsis

**

knig

ht’s p

lum

eR

hytid

iops

is ro

bust

apip

ecle

aner

moss

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uroz

ium

sch

rebe

ri*

red-s

tem

med feath

erm

oss

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chyt

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um s

p.

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�ra

gg

ed

-mo

ss

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tidia

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hus

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rros

usbent-

leaf m

oss

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nium

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um*

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und-leaved leafy

moss

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m s

quar

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mshaggy p

eat

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giom

nium

sp

.��

*��

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*le

afy

moss

74

75

76

77

78

ICHvk1 - 13

ICHvk1E

nv

iro

nm

en

t Ta

ble

So

il M

ois

ture

Re

gim

e

Me

so

slo

pe

Po

sit

ion

Slo

pe

Gra

die

nt

As

pe

ct

Pa

ren

t

Ma

teri

als

So

il T

ex

ture

Cla

ss

Imp

ort

an

t

Fe

atu

res

Su

cc

es

sio

na

l

Sta

ge

Oc

cu

rre

nc

e

Site U

nits

07

72

73

02

04

03

05

06

01

08

09

10

Ta

lus

Ro

ck

O

utc

rop

Fo

res

ts

VX

X

VX

(X)

X

(SX

)

SX

(SM

)

SM

(SX

)

M

SM

M

SM

M

SH

GS

HG

(M)

HG

SH

D

(SH

G)

HG

S

HD

S

HD

H

D

(HG

)

MD

(LW

)

CR

U

P

MD

CR

U

P

MD

UP

M

D

(CR

)

MD

(UP

)

LW

(MD

)

LW

(MD

)

LW

M

DLW

TO

LV

LV

(LW

TO

)

TO

LV

DP

DP

(LV

)

Ste

ep

Va

ria

ble

Ste

ep

Ge

ntle

Va

ria

ble

S

tee

p

(Ge

ntle

)

Ste

ep

Ge

ntle

Va

ria

ble

Ste

ep

Ge

ntle

Va

ria

ble

Le

ve

lL

eve

lL

eve

l

Wa

rmW

arm

V

aria

ble

V

aria

ble

Wa

rm

(Ne

utr

al)

Va

ria

ble

Ne

utr

al

Wa

rm

Va

ria

ble

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Ne

utr

al

Cb

R

(Cx)

R

Cb

(Mb

)

Cb

(Mb

)

Mb

(Cb F

G)

Mb

(Fb

Cb

)

Mb

Cb

Fb

Fb

(Cb

Mb

)

Fb

Ov/F

Ov/M

Ov/L

Fb

Ob

Fra

gm

enta

lV

ariable

Variable

Coars

e

Me

diu

m

(Fra

gm

en

tal)

Coars

e

(Me

diu

m)

Coars

e

(Me

diu

m)

Mediu

m

Coars

e

Mediu

m

Coars

e

Variable

Mediu

m

(Fin

e)

Variable

Variable

Rocks

& b

ould

ers

Bedro

ck

0-2

0 c

m

Bedro

ck

0-2

0 c

m

C

old

air

dra

inage

C

old

air

or

transis

tional

to the E

SS

F

Wate

r ta

ble

25

-10

0 c

m

Wa

ter

table

5-7

5 c

m

Wa

ter

tabe

0-2

0 c

m

M

C

MC

M

C

MC

M

C

MC

M

C

MC

M

C

MC

Scarc

eS

carc

eU

ncom

mon

Com

mon

Com

mon

Com

mon

Uncom

mon

1D

om

inant

Uncom

mon

1S

carc

e2

Un

co

mm

on

Un

co

mm

on

1 M

ost com

mon in v

alle

y b

ottom

s s

ubje

ct to

cold

air d

rain

age in n

ort

hern

Wells

Gra

y P

ark

and s

ide d

rain

ages o

f th

e u

pper

Nort

h T

hom

pson.

2 G

enera

lly a

ssocia

ted w

ith larg

e fl o

odpla

ins.

ICHvk1 - 14

ICHvk1

En

vir

on

me

nt

Ta

ble

So

il M

ois

ture

Re

gim

e

Me

so

slo

pe

Po

sit

ion

Slo

pe

Gra

die

nt

As

pe

ct

Pa

ren

t

Ma

teri

als

So

il T

ex

ture

Cla

ss

Imp

ort

an

t

Fe

atu

res

Su

cc

es

sio

na

l

Sta

ge

Oc

cu

rre

nc

e

Site U

nits

74

75

76

78

77

Av

ala

nc

he

Tra

ck

s

SM

M

M

SH

GM

(SH

G S

M)

M

SH

GS

HG

(M)

MD

LW

TO

MD

LW

TO

MD

(LW

TO

)

MD

LW

TO

Ge

ntle

Ste

ep

Ge

ntle

S

tee

p

Ge

ntle

Ste

ep

Ge

ntle

Ne

utr

al

Wa

rm

Ne

utr

al

Va

ria

ble

Ne

utr

al

Co

ol

Ne

utr

al

Cb

C

bC

bC

bC

b

Me

diu

m

(Fra

gm

en

tal)

Fra

gm

en

tal

Me

diu

m

Me

diu

m

Va

ria

ble

Me

diu

m

(Fra

gm

en

tal)

So

me

se

ep

ag

e

So

me

se

ep

ag

e

So

me

se

ep

ag

e

So

me

se

ep

ag

e

Sca

rce

Sca

rce

Co

mm

on

Co

mm

on

Sca

rce

ICHvk1 - 15

ICHvk1

73 Rock-moss — Clad lichensUnit 73 is very infrequent and is

restricted to non-forested areas

with exposed rock outcrops on

steep middle and upper slopes and

crests. Scattered Sxw or Bl trees

may be present. The shrub layer is

very sparse and includes scattered

patches of falsebox, black huckleberry

and false azalea. The herb layer

is also sparse. The bryophyte and

lichen layer is dominated by mosses

growing on exposed bedrock and

rocks and includes rock-moss, awned

and juniper haircap mosses and

heron’s-bill moss. Clad lichens are

also abundant.

72 Rocktripe lichens — Rock-mossSite series 72 is a talus unit found

on steep, upper, middle and lower

slopes with a warm aspect. Shrubs

and herbs may be present in minor

amounts. Bryophytes and lichens

are very abundant. Common

species include rock-moss, clad,

foam, reindeer, and rocktripe lichens,

juniper haircap moss and heron’s-bill

moss.

ICHvk1 - 16

ICHvk1

02 HwCw — FeathermossThe 02 unit is infrequent. It is the

driest forested site series. It occurs

on steep upper and middle slopes

and crests where exposed bedrock

is present and soils are very shallow

to absent. The forest canopy may

include Cw, Hw, Sxw and Bl. The

regeneration layer is typically

dominated by Cw and Hw. The shrub

layer is sparse; common species

include black huckleberry and oval-

leaved blueberry. Some of the species

which may be found in the sparse herb

layer include one-sided wintergreen,

rattlesnake plantain, one-leaved

foamfl ower, bunchberry and queen’s

cup. Mosses dominate the substrate.

The most abundant species include

step moss, pipecleaner moss and

knight’s plume.

03 HwCw — Azalea — FeathermossThis dry unit is predominantly

found on middle and upper slopes

and crests. The forest canopy is

dominated by Hw. Cw and, to a

lesser extent, Sxw and Bl, may occur

as minor components. The dense

regeneration layer may be dominated

by both Hw and Cw. The shrub layer

is sparse and includes false azalea,

black huckleberry and oval-leaved

blueberry. The herb layer is species-

poor and may be sparse to moderate in

extent. It is dominated by fi ve-leaved

bramble and bunchberry. One-sided

wintergreen and queen’s cup may

also be present. The bryophyte layer

is usually very extensive. The most

common and abundant species are

heron’s-bill moss, pipecleaner moss,

red-stemmed feathermoss, step moss and knight’s plume.

ICHvk1 - 17

ICHvk1

04 CwHw — Oak fernThis unit is common and is found

most often on warm and steep or

gentle middle slopes. The tree layer

is dominated by Hw and Cw. The

regeneration layer is usually dominated

by Hw with a minor component of Cw.

The moderate shrub layer includes

falsebox, black huckleberry, western

yew, false azalea and oval-leaved

blueberry. Unlike drier forested units,

the herb layer is more extensive and

species-rich. Oak fern, queen’s cup,

bunchberry, rattlesnake-plantain,

one-leaved foamfl ower, and rosy

twistedstalk are common species.

The well-developed moss layer

includes red-stemmed feathermoss,

pipecleaner moss, step moss and

knight’s plume.

05 CwHw — Spiny wood fern — Oak fernThe 05 is a common unit on middle and

lower slopes. The forest is a closed

stand dominated by Hw and Cw. The

sparse to moderate regeneration

layer is usually dominated by Hw

with a minor component of Cw. The

shrub layer is typically composed of

a number of species present in minor

amounts including western yew, black

huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry,

false azalea, Douglas maple and

devil’s club. The extensive herb

layer differs from the 04 unit in that

large ferns, lady fern and spiny wood

fern, are common and abundant.

Other common species include oak

fern, rosy twistedstalk, one-leaved

foamfl ower and bunchberry. The

extensive bryophyte layer is similar to

the 03 and 04 units.

ICHvk1 - 18

ICHvk1

06 Sxw — Thimbleberry — Oak fernThe 06 unit is found in cold air

drainages. The forest canopy is

dominated by Sxw with a minor

component of Bl. The shrub layer

is often extensive of which the

most abundant species include

thimbleberry, black huckleberry,

oval-leaved blueberry, black

gooseberry, false azalea and black

twinberry. The extensive herb layer

is often dominated by oak fern, lady

fern, spiny wood fern, one-leaved

foamfl ower and bunchberry. The

extensive bryophyte layer often

includes ragged-moss, bent-leaf

moss, red-stemmed feathermoss and

leafy liverwort.

01 CwHw — Devil’s club — Lady fernThe zonal site series is most often

found on gentle or cool and steep

lower and middle slopes. The

canopy is dominated by Cw and

Hw. Sxw is often present as a minor

component. The sparse regeneration

layer is dominated by Hw with a minor

component of Cw. Unlike drier site

series, the shrub layer is dominated by

abundant devil’s club. Other common


include oval-leaved blueberry and

Douglas maple. The extensive herb

layer is similar to the 05 unit and is

dominated by oak fern, lady fern,

spiny wood fern and one-leaved

foamfl ower. The bryophyte layer is

sparse to moderate and is dominated

most often by ragged-moss and red-


ICHvk1 - 19

ICHvk1

07 Sxw — Devil’s clubThe 07 is dominated by Sxw with

minor components of Bl and Cw. It

typically occurs in cold air drainages

or at higher elevations in areas

transitional to the ESSF. It occurs on

a variety of slope positions but is most

often found on lower and toe slopes

and level areas. The regeneration

layer is relatively sparse and may

include Sxw, Bl, Cw, or Hw. The shrub

and herb layers are similar to the 01

unit and are dominated abundant

devil’s club, lady fern, oak fern and

spiny wood fern. The bryophyte layer

is often dominated by ragged-moss

with minor components of round-

leaved leafy moss, red-stemmed

feathermoss and knight’s plume.

08 Sxw — Dogwood — HorsetailThis unit is very uncommon. It occurs

on toe and lower slopes and level

areas on fl uvial materials. The water

table is near the soil surface. Sxw

dominates the open forest canopy

with a minor component of Bl. The

sparse regeneration layer may

include Cw, Sxw, Bl or Hw. Unlike

the 07 and 01 units, devil’s club is

sparse to absent. Instead the shrub

layer is often dominated by red-osier

dogwood, highbush-cranberry, black

twinberry, thimbleberry and black

gooseberry. The extensive herb layer

is dominated by common horsetail.

Some of the other species present in

minor amounts include sweet-scented

bedstraw, rosy twistedstalk, mitrewort

and violets. The extensive bryophyte

layer includes abundant ragged moss and bent-leaf moss.

ICHvk1 - 20

ICHvk1

09 CwHw — Skunk cabbageThe uncommon 09 unit occurs on toe

slopes, level areas and depressions

where the water table is at or near

the soil surface. The open forest

is dominated by Hw and Cw with

minor Sxw. Regeneration is typically

dense and dominated by Hw. The

shrub layer is sparse and includes

minor amounts of a number of

species including black huckleberry,

oval-leaved blueberry and devil’s

club. The herb layer is dominated

by the characteristic species, skunk

cabbage. Lady fern and small-

fl owered bulrush are often very

abundant. Other common species

include common horsetail, violets,

bunchberry and oak fern. Shaggy

peat moss dominates the bryophyte

layer.

10 Sxw — BulrushThis very wet forested unit is

uncommon. It usually occurs in areas

where the water table is at or above

the soil surface. The open forest is

dominated by Sxw. Cw, Hw and Bl

may be present in minor amounts.

The shrub layer is dominated by a

moderate cover of mountain alder.

The herb layer is dominated by small-

fl owered bulrush. Other common

species include lady fern, violets,

common horsetail, and bluejoint

reedgrass. The bryophyte layer is

often very sparse.

ICHvk1 - 21

ICHvk1

74 Dogwood — ThimbleberryThis very uncommon avalanche unit

is found most often on middle, lower

and toe slopes. The shrub layer is

dominated by thimbleberry. Other

common shrubs include red-osier

dogwood, elderberry, and black

gooseberry. The rich herb layer is

variable but lady fern is often the most


species include cow-parsnip, stinging

nettle and fi reweed. The bryophyte

layer is sparse; the most common

species are ragged-moss and leafy

moss.

75 Willow — Lady fernThis avalanche track unit is very

uncommon. It occurs most frequently

on gentle middle, lower and toe

slopes. The shrub layer is dominated

by a dense cover of willow. Other

shrubs that are present in minor

amounts include thimbleberry and

elderberry. The extensive herb layer

is dominated by lady fern. Other

common species include stinging

nettle, sweet-scented bedstraw,

violets and western meadowrue.

The sparse bryophyte layer includes

ragged-moss.

ICHvk1 - 22

ICHvk1

76 Alder — Lady fernThis is a common and widespread

avalanche track unit. It is found on

steep, cool, middle, lower and toe


by a dense cover of Sitka alder.

The herb layer dominated either

by lady fern or spiny wood fern.

Other common herbs include rosy

twistedstalk, Indian hellebore and oak

fern. The sparse moss layer includes

ragged-moss and leafy moss.

77 Devil’s club — Oak fern This is a common avalanche track

unit found on gentle to steep middle


by abundant devil’s club and Sitka

alder. The herb layer is typically

dominated by oak fern with minor

amounts of lady fern, mitrewort,

sweet-scented bedstraw, violets

and one-leaved foamfl ower. The

bryophyte layer is dominated by leafy

moss with a minor component of

ragged-moss.

ICHvk1 - 23

ICHvk1

78 Indian hellebore BluejointThis avalanche track unit is very

uncommon and is found most

often on lower or toe slopes. It is

distinguished from other avalanche

track units by the absence of a dense

and abundant shrub layer. Instead,

herbs dominate the vegetation of

which the most abundant species are

Indian hellebore, Sitka valerian and

bluejoint reedgrass. Other common

species include fi reweed, mitrewort,

lady fern, sweet-scented bedstraw,

and cow-parsnip. The bryophyte

layer is very sparse.

ICHwk1 - 1

ICHwk1

ICHwk1WELLS GRAY WET COOL

INTERIOR CEDAR — HEMLOCK VARIANT

Distribution: The ICHwk1 generally occurs above the ICHmw at the end

of several valleys in the Cariboo, Monashee and Selkirk Mountains. It

occurs at mid-elevations and in the valley bottoms of Scotch Creek and

the Clearwater, upper North Thompson, Shuswap, Adams and Seymour

River drainages. In the former Nelson Forest Region it occurs from valley

bottoms to mid slopes in the upper Duncan, Incomapleux, Illecillewaet and

Gold Rivers. It also occurs adjacent to the Mica Reservoir north of Smith

Creek and the Columbia River drainage north of the Arrow Lakes

Elevational Range: The ICHwk1 occupies valley bottoms that range in

elevation from 500-1000m and on slopes above the ICHmw1, mw2 and

mw3. It extends to the ESSF boundary at about 1400-1450 m on north

aspects and 1450-1500 m on south aspects. In a few instances the ICHwk1

occurs below the ICHvk1 in which case the elevation break varies from 800

to 1300m.

ATESSFMS

IDFPPBG

ICHSBPSSBS

ICHwk1

ICHwk1 - 2

ICHwk1ICHwk1


IDF and MS. The ICHwk1 is moister, cooler and receives more snow than

either the ICHmw or ICHmk, but it is drier and warmer than the ICHvk1.

The mean annual precipitation is estimated to range from 800 to 1200mm

and the maximum snow pack averages 1.5-2 m. Soil moist defi cits rarely

occur since late snowmelt and ample spring and summer rainfall provide a

relatively constant supply of moisture. Summers are warm and the growing

season is relatively long. Consequently, the ICHwk1 is one of the most

productive biogeoclimatic units in the province’s interior. The only major

limitation to growth occurs in valley bottoms subject to cold air drainage and

frequent spring and early summer frosts. This is particularly common in the

North Thompson valley north of Blue River and in northern Wells Gray Park.

Forest Cover: Late succession stands of Hw and Cw dominate the ICH-

wk1 landscape. Fd, Sxw, Bl, Cw and Hw form mixed successional stands.

The relative proportion of each tree species is infl uenced by the nature and

intensity of disturbances, the distance to a seed sources, the proximity to

cold air sources, and the soil moisture regime. Fd most commonly occurs

as a seral species on steep south aspects. Sxw and Bl occur in varying

amounts but, are most abundant on wet sites, areas subject to cold air

drainage and at upper elevations that are transitional to the ESSF. Fire

return intervals are estimated to be a minimum of 200-250 years. As a con-

sequence old growth stands are relatively common throughout the ICHwk1.

Stands are relatively dense and mature stands are generally 30-35m tall.

Zonal Vegetation and Soils: Climax multi-story stands of Hw and Cw

with a lush herb layer and well-developed moss layer prevail. Hw and

Cw regeneration is abundant. The shrub layer is poorly developed and

often contains falsebox, black huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry and false

azalea. The herb layer is dominated by oak fern, bunchberry, queen’s cup,

one-leaved foamfl ower, fi ve-leaved bramble, rosy twistedstalk and wild

sarsaparilla. Mosses are well developed and include red-stemmed feather-

moss, step moss, pipecleaner moss and knight’s plume. Soils are charac-

teristically Humo-Ferric Podzols with deep Mor humus forms.

Adjacent Biogeoclimatic Subzones: The ICHwk1 occurs above the ICH-

mw, mw2 or mw3 and below the ESSFwc2, wc4 or vc. At wetter geographic

extremes of the ICHwk1 it occurs below the ICHvk1.

ICHwk1 - 3

ICHwk1

Distinguishing adjacent Biogeoclimatic units from the ICHwk1

On zonal sites:

ICHmw1, mw2 and mw3

• oak fern, rosy twisted stalk and one-leaved foamfl ower absent

• seral stands are more common

ICHvk1

• devil’s club, spiny wood fern and lady fern dominate the understory

• alder dominated avalanche tracks common on non zonal sites

ESSFvc

• Se, Bl and Hm dominate the forest canopy


ESSFwc2 and wc4

• Se and Bl dominate the forest canopy


72

Rocktr

ipe lic

hens —

Rock-m

oss

73

Cedar

— F

eath

erm

oss

74

Rock-m

oss —

Cla

d lic

hens

02

Hw

Cw

— A

zale

a —

Feath

erm

oss

03

Hw

Cw

— F

als

ebox —

Feath

erm

oss

01

Cw

Hw

— O

ak f

ern

04

Cw

Hw

— L

ady fern

— O

ak fern

05

Cw

Hw

— D

evil’

s c

lub —

Lady f

ern

06

BlS

xw

— T

him

ble

berr

y —

Oak f

ern

07

Sxw

— D

evil’

s c

lub —

Lady fern

0

8A

ct

— D

ogw

ood —

Thim

ble

berr

y0

9C

wH

w —

Hors

eta

il1

0C

wH

w —

Skunk c

abbage

75

Ald

er

— H

ooker’

s f

airybells

76

Ald

er

— L

ady f

ern

Wb

02

Pl —

Bog r

osem

ary

— P

eat-

moss

Wb

07

Pl —

Wate

r sedge —

Peat-

moss

Wf0

1W

ate

r sedge —

Beaked s

edge

Wf0

3W

ate

r sedge —

Peat-

moss

Wf0

4B

arc

lay’s

will

ow

— W

ate

r sedge —

Glo

w m

oss

Wf0

5S

lender

sedge —

Com

mon h

ook-m

oss

Wf0

6S

lender

sedge —

Buckbean

Wf0

8S

hore

sedge —

Buckbean —

Hook-m

oss

Wf1

1T

ufted c

lubru

sh —

Sta

r m

oss

Wm

01

Beaked s

edge —

Wate

r sedge

Wm

02

Sw

am

p h

ors

eta

il —

Beaked s

edge

Wm

04

Com

mon s

pik

e-r

ush

Wm

09

Infl ate

d s

edge

Ws

01

Mounta

in a

lder

— S

kunk c

abbage —

Lady f

ern

Ws

02

Mounta

in a

lder

— P

ink s

pirea —

Sitka s

edge

Ws

04

Dru

mm

ond’s

will

ow

— B

eaked s

edge

Ws

06

Sitka w

illow

— S

itka s

edge

Ws

50

Pin

k s

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Sitka s

edge

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Pond-lily

0


very

po

or

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po

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very

ric

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il N

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sub

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sub

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76541

ICHwk1

Ed

ato

pic

Gri

d

08

10

09

04

01

03

02

72 73 74

75

WE

TL

AN

DS

05 0

6

07 7

6

ICHwk1 - 5

ICHwk1


Talus

Slopes

Substrate of stones and boulders. Sparse/absent

trees, shrubs and herbs. Species present may include

Fd, Sxw, common juniper and parsley fern. Extensive

lichens and mosses which include foam, rocktripe, pelt

and reindeer lichens, juniper haircap moss and heron’s

bill moss.

72

73

Substrate of stones and boulders. Sparse Bl or Cw

(<10%). Sparse shrub and herb layers. Species present

may include falsebox, azalea, black huckleberry and

bunchberry. Extensive bryophyte layer includes leafy

liverworts, heron’s-bill moss, red-stemmed feathermoss

and knight’s plume.

Rock

Outcrop

Exposed bedrock and shallow soils. Bl or Cw (<10%)

sometimes present. Sparse shrub and herb layers -

black huckleberry, falsebox & parsley fern. Moss and

lichen layer extensive - common species include rock-

moss, foam lichen, clad lichen & haircap moss.

74

Gentle or steep upper slopes & crests. Shallow soils.

Hw canopy with minor Fd, Pm, Cw, Sxw or Bl. Sparse

or moderate false azalea and black huckleberry.

Sparse herb cover prince’s pine, twinfl ower & queen’s

cup. Extensive moss layer dominated by red-stemmed

feathermoss.

02

Steep & warm or gentle slopes. Deep soils. Dense

HwCw(Fd) canopy. Moderate shrub layer dominated by

falsebox. Herb layer similar to 02 but more extensive and

includes minor oak fern and foamfl ower. Extensive

bryophyte layer dominated by red-stemmed feathermoss.

03

Dry

Forests

Steep & warm or gentle slopes. Dense HwCw(Fd)

canopy. Moderate shrub layer dominated by falsebox.

Herb layer similar to 02 but more extensive and includes

minor oak fern and foamfl ower. Extensive bryophyte

layer dominated by red-stemmed feathermoss.

03

Gentle or steep & cool slopes. CwHw canopy. Sparse

shrub layer. Herb layer similar to 03 unit but oak fern

often the dominant species. Rosy twistedstalk &

spiny wood fern often present. Extensive moss layer.

01

Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

ICHwk1 - 6

ICHwk1


Slightly

Dry

to

Moist

Forests

07

Mostly toe slopes. Cold air drainages. Open SxwBl

canopy. Hw & Cw sometimes present. Abundant

devil’s club (>10%). Extensive herb layer dominated

by lady, oak & spiny wood ferns. Variable moss layer.

06

Toe slopes & level areas. Cold air drainages. SxwBl

canopy. Hw & Cw sometimes present. Thimbleberry often

abundant; devil’s club sparse/absent . Extensive herb layer

dominated by oak & lady ferns. Variable moss layer.

05

Gentle or steep slopes. CwHw canopy. Abundant

devil’s club. Extensive herb layer usually dominated

by lady fern. Spiny wood fern & oak fern abundant.


04

Gentle slopes or steep & cool slopes. CwHw canopy.

Sparse shrub layer - devil’s club sometimes present in

minor amounts. Extensive herb layer dominated by

oak fern. Lady fern often present. Moderate moss

layer.

10

Level areas & depressions. Water table at or near

surface. Open CwHw canopy sometimes with Sxw.

Sparse to moderate shrub layer. Abundant skunk

cabbage & lady fern. Extensive moss layer.

Often on fl oodplains. Open Act(Sxw) canopy. Variable

shrub layer may include red-osier dogwood, thimbleberry &

black twinberry. Various herbs. Bryophytes sparse/absent.

08

Level areas or depressions. Water table at or near

surface. Open canopy with Hw, Cw Sxw or Bl. Variable

shrub layer. Abundant common horsetail (>10%).


09Wet

Forests

75

76Abundant Sitka alder. Herb layer dominated by spiny

wood fern and bracken. Mosses & lichens absent.

Abundant Sitka alder, Douglas maple and

thimbleberry. Rich herb layer including Hooker’s

fairybells, yellow glacier lily & false Solomon’s seal.

Mosses & lichens sparse.Avalanche

Tracks


ICHwk1 - 7ICHwk1 - 7

ICHwk1






Wb07 Lodgepole pine — Water sedge

— Peat-mossUncommon. Pl, Sx and Bl are present (<10% cover). Labrador tea dominates along with an abundance of water sedge. Peat-moss is plentiful. Mid to high elevation.













ICHwk1



Shallow











Wm04 Common spike-rushUncommon. Dominated by common spike-rush. Low plant diversity. Low to mid elevation.Marshes

Mineral soil; shallowly fl ooded; sedges, grasses and reeds.

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ge

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on

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ble

ICHwk1 - 9

ICHwk1

Tre

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rub

s

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73

72

75

61

09

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Site U

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72

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02

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ICHwk1

Tre

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Sh

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67

93

37

9N

o. of P

lots

1

Fo

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ts

05

06

Site

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its

07

08

09

10

75

76 1

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ICHwk1 - 14

ICHwk1

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ICHwk1

72 Rocktripe lichens — Rock-mossThe 72 unit is very uncommon. It

occurs on steep talus slopes. Trees,

shrubs and herbs are very sparse

and are restricted to small pockets

of mineral soil. Fd, Sxw, common

juniper or parsley fern may be

present. The bryophyte and lichen

layer is extensive. Clad lichens and

rock-moss are the most common and


species include foam, rocktripe, pelt

and reindeer lichens, juniper haircap

moss and heron’s-bill moss.

73 Cw — FeathermossThis unit is very uncommon. It occurs

on steep talus slopes. Unlike the 72

unit, stunted patches of Bl or Cw are

present on pockets of mineral soil.

Hw and Sxw may also be present

in minor amounts. The shrub layer

is sparse; falsebox, false azalea


common species. The herb layer is

also sparse; bunchberry is a common

species. The bryophyte and lichen

layer is dominated by Hatcher’s leafy

liverwort, common leafy liverwort,

heron’s-bill moss, red-stemmed



ICHwk1

74 Rock-moss — Clad lichensThe 74 unit is very uncommon. It

occurs on middle and upper slopes

and crests where exposed bedrock

is present and soils are very shallow.

Scattered conifers, Fd or Sxw, may be

present. The shrub layer is sparse;

the most common species include

common juniper, black huckleberry,

falsebox and false azalea. The herb

layer is sparse; parsley fern is the

most common species. The bryophyte

and lichen layer is dominated by

rock-moss. Other common species

include foam, clad and pelt lichens,

awned and juniper haircap mosses,

and heron’s-bill moss.

02 HwCw — Azalea — FeathermossThis is the driest forested site series

and is found on upper slopes and

crests on shallow soils. The open

forest canopy is dominated by Hw. Fd,

Pw, Cw, Sxw and Bl may also occur

in minor amounts. The regeneration

layer is usually dominated by Hw and

Cw. The most common species in the

sparse to moderate shrub layer are

false azalea and black huckleberry.

Herb cover is usually sparse;

common species include prince’s

pine, rattlesnake-plantain, twinfl ower,

fi ve-leaved bramble, bunchberry

and queen’s cup. The bryophyte

and lichen layer is extensive and is

usually dominated by red-stemmed

feathermoss. Other common species

include heron’s-bill moss, knight’s

plume and pipecleaner moss.


ICHwk1

03 HwCw — Falsebox — FeathermossThe 03 is a common unit found on

steep and warm or gentle middle

and upper slopes. It is dominated

by a mixed canopy of Hw and Cw.

Fd is sometimes present as a minor

component. The regeneration layer

is dominated by Hw with a minor

component of Cw. The moderate shrub

layer is often dominated by falsebox.

Other common species include black

huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry and

false azalea. The herb layer is similar

to that of the 02 unit and contains the

same species but it is more extensive in

the 03 unit. In addition, it includes trace

amounts of one-leaved foamfl ower and

oak fern. The extensive bryophyte layer

is usually dominated by red-stemmed

feathermoss, step moss, heron’s-bill

moss, pipecleaner moss and knight’s

01 CwHw — Oak fernThe zonal site series is found most

often on gentle or steep and cool slopes

and level areas. The forest canopy

is dominated by a mix of Hw and Cw.

Minor amounts of Bl and Sxw may be

present. The regeneration layer is

dominated by Hw with a minor amount

of Cw. The sparse shrub layer contains

several species including falsebox, black

huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry and

false azalea. The herb layer is more

extensive than the 03 unit; oak fern is

often the most abundant species. Other

abundant species include bunchberry,

queen’s cup and one-leaved foamfl ower.

Rosy twistedstalk and spiny wood fern


Red-stemmed feathermoss, pipecleaner

moss and step moss are the most

abundant species in the extensive moss layer.


ICHwk1

04 CwHw — Lady fern — Oak fern This unit is common and is often found

near the climatically wetter portions of

the ICHwk1. It occurs on steep and

cool or gentle middle, lower and toe

slopes. The closed canopy and sparse

regeneration layer are composed of

Hw and Cw. The shrub layer is sparse;

oval-leaved blueberry and black

huckleberry are the most common

species. Devil’s club is sometimes

present but always in minor amounts.

The herb layer is extensive and is

dominated by oak fern. Other common

and abundant species include queen’s

cup, bunchberry, wild sarsaparilla, one-

leaved foamfl ower, rosy twistedstalk,

spiny wood fern and fi ve-leaved

bramble. Unlike drier units, lady fern is

often present. The moderate bryophyte layer includes heron’s-bill moss, red-

stemmed moss, knight’s plume, step moss and pipecleaner moss.

05 CwHw — Devil’s club — Lady fernThe 05 unit is common and occurs on

middle, lower and toe slopes. The tree

and regeneration layers are composed

of Cw and Hw. Unlike drier forested

units the shrub layer is extensive

and is dominated by abundant devil’s

club (>10%). Other common species

present in minor amounts include oval-

leaved blueberry, black huckleberry,

black gooseberry, Douglas maple

and thimbleberry. The extensive herb

layer is usually dominated by lady fern.

Other abundant species include spiny

wood fern, one-leaved foamfl ower

and oak fern. Species present in

minor amounts include queen’s cup,

bunchberry, rosy twistedstalk and

fi ve-leaved bramble. The bryophyte

layer is variable. Common species include ragged-moss, red-stemmed



ICHwk1

06 BlSxw — Thimbleberry — Oak fern

This site unit is uncommon and occurs

in cold air drainages. It occurs on toe

slopes and level areas. The forest

canopy is dominated by Sxw with a

minor component of Bl. Hw and Cw

are occasionally present and any of the

four species may occur in the sparse


is often dominated by thimbleberry.

Other common species include

black twinberry, black huckleberry

and oval-leaved blueberry. Devil’s

club and black gooseberry may

be present in minor amounts. The

extensive herb layer is similar to the

05 unit and is dominated by lady fern

and oak fern. The bryophyte layer is

variable; common species include

ragged-moss, knight’s plume and


07 Sxw — Devil’s club — Lady fernThis site unit is infrequent and is found

in cold air drainages. Sxw and Bl

dominate the forest canopy. Hw and

Cw are occasionally present in minor

amounts. Any of the four species

may occur in the sparse regeneration

layer. The shrub layer differs from

the 06 unit in that devil’s club is very

abundant (>10%) and dominates the

understory. Other shrubs may be

present in minor amounts. The herb

layer is similar to the 06 unit and lady

fern, oak fern and spiny wood fern

are the most common and abundant

species. Ragged moss and round-

leaved leafy moss often dominate the

bryophyte layer.


ICHwk1

08 Act — Dogwood — ThimbleberryThe 08 site unit is very uncommon.

It occurs on fl uvial deposits on level

areas. The tree layer consists of an

open patchy Act stand. Sxw may

also be present. The regeneration

layer is very sparse and consists

of scattered Cw and Sxw. The

shrub layer is variable; red-osier

dogwood, thimbleberry and black

twinberry are common species.

Numerous herbaceous species are

often present in minor amounts and

include sweet-cicely, sweet-scented

bedstraw, clasping twistedstalk, oak

fern, one-leaved foamfl ower and false

Solomon’s-seal. The bryophyte layer

is typically very sparse or absent

because of the thick deciduous leaf

litter.

09 CwHw — HorsetailThe 09 occurs infrequently but is

most often found on level areas or

in depressions where the water level

is near the soil surface. The forest

canopy and regeneration layer may

contain Hw, Cw, Sxw and Bl. The

shrub layer is variable; some species

include black twinberry, oval-leaved

blueberry, devil’s club, red-osier

dogwood and Sitka alder. Unlike

drier forested units, the extensive

herb layer is dominated by abundant

common horsetail (>10%). Other

common species include oak fern,

lady fern, rosy twistedstalk, and

bunchberry. The moderate to

extensive bryophyte layer is variable;

common species include ragged-

moss, peat-moss, step moss and



ICHwk1

10 CwHw — Skunk cabbageThe wettest forested unit is found on

level areas and in depressions where

the water table is at or near the soil

surface. Canopy cover is moderate

and typically contains Cw and Hw but

Sxw may also be abundant. The same

species dominate the regeneration

layer. Shrub cover is sparse to

moderate; and common species

include oval-leaved blueberry, false

azalea and devil’s club. The herb

layer is dominated by skunk cabbage

(>10%). Lady fern is also usually a

dominant species. Other common

herbs include oak fern, bunchberry,

rosy twistedstalk and one-leaved

foamfl ower. The bryophyte layer

is variable; common and abundant

species may include peat-moss,

knight’s plume and red-stemmed feathermoss.

75 Alder — Hooker’s fairybellsThis is a very uncommon avalanche

track unit. It occurs on steep upper

and middle slopes. The shrub layer

is dominated by a mix of Sitka alder,

thimbleberry and Douglas maple.

The extensive herb layer is composed

of Hooker’s fairybells, violets, yellow

glacier lily and false Solomon’s-seal.

The moss layer is poorly developed.


ICHwk1

76 Alder — Lady fernThis is a very uncommon avalanche

track unit. It occurs on steep upper,

middle and lower slopes. The shrub

layer is dominated by a dense cover

of Sitka alder. The herb layer is

dominated by a mixture of spiny

wood fern and bracken. Bryophytes

are absent.

long, cold winters with a high snow cover and short, cool … · · 2006-05-05common. amounts of...

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