Northeastern Newfoundland

This ecoregion covers the north shore of Newfoundland from the Northern Peninsula to Bonavista. The ecoregion is characterized by cool summers and short, cold winters. It has the warmest summers of the coastal areas. The mean annual temperature is around 4°C, with a mean summer temperature of 12.5°C and a mean winter temperature of -3.5°C. This ecoregion is the driest part of the island, with a mean annual precipitation ranging from 900 mm to 1000 mm.

Black spruce, white spruce and balsam fir, with an understory of feathermoss, are the dominant tree species. The forest is less developed towards the coast due to increased wind exposure. Barrens are common in along the coast. Elevations range from sea level to approximately 150 m asl. Bedrock outcrops are common. Seabirds, especially murre, eider and tern, take refuge in this ecoregion. Funk Island is one of North America's most important seabird sanctuaries. Fishing, mining, and forestry are dominant land-use activities in this ecoregion. The major communities include Twillingate, Wesleyville, and Springdale.

©2002, Trevor Bell

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