Chapter 16:The North Pacific Coast

Much of the North Pacific Coast's regional character is tied up in beauty and bounty of its landscapes. Another key component is the relative location. Precipitation is high here because of its maritime influences. The greatest average annual precipitation on the continent is found there; averages above 190 centimeters are common. However, not all of the Northern Pacific Coast has high precipitation. Mountains are the main reason for the high precipitation and the substantial climatic variations that exist inland.



Not surprisingly, the North Pacific Coast is a land of mountains. Except for the tundra above the treeline and the drier lowlands, all of the North Pacific Coast is, or was, covered by forest. Tree growth is encouraged by the region's plentiful moisture and moderate winter temperatures. No other part of Canada or the United States provide as much lumber as the North Pacific Coast.

More than 10 million people live in the North Pacific Coast.Most live in a long cluster of cities and towns along the lowland. Seattle has been the largest city along the North Pacific Coast since its boom era of the late nineteenth century.