Ecosystem

The warm winter temperatures and large amounts of precipitation promote lush tree growth.   The Southeast region is part of the Pacific temperate rainforest, the largest temperate rainforest on earth.  This rainforest stretches along the Pacific coast from the redwood forests of northern California (tallest trees on earth) to the eastern Kenai Peninsula.  The primary tree species in the Southeast are Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and yellow cedar.

The large rainfall not only promotes forest growth but also abundant marine life.  The rain washes enormous amounts of nutrients into the ocean, making it especially productive. The region's waters support large salmon runs, along with a variety of other fisheries such as herring, cod, halibut, shrimp, and crab. 

Old growth Sitka spruce (and devil's club) in Southeast Alaska.