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The Great short grass plains of Eastern Colorado. Author Chris Light.

Top 10 Facts about the Great Plains

A visit to the Great Plains is a lifetime experience that should not be missed by any nature lovers. With a total area of around 1,125,000 square miles, the Great Plains in North America extend from Canada to Mexico. The area is famous for its grassy plains, level terrain, and dry climate. Black Americans, European colonizers, and several Native American tribes have all called it home throughout its long cultural history. A significant agricultural region, the Great Plains produces crops like wheat, corn, and others. It is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with many opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. In this context, we will explore the Top 10 facts about the Great Plains.

1. It Covers Approximately 1,125,000 Square Miles

WY Redds Great plains. The expansive river and natural habitat, contain rich Flora. Author BLM Wyoming.

Situated in North America, the Great Plains are a sizable territory that spans about 1,125,000 square miles. By comparison, it is roughly three times the size of France or five individual American states put together. From the Rocky Mountains in the west to the Mississippi River in the east, and even into Canada, the region extends over the whole United States. Despite their immensity, the Great Plains have a small population because much of the land is used for farming and livestock.

Read about 10 Unbelievable Facts about the Mississippi River.

2. The Region Is Characterized By Its Flat Terrain, Grassy Plains, And Dry Climate

It is characterized by its level terrain, grassy plains, and dry climate. The area is mostly level and devoid of notable geographic features. The only relief from the flatness is provided by gently undulating hills and tiny river valleys. It has a semi-arid environment due to insufficient precipitation, and the grasses and bushes there are drought-tolerant.

Large herds of bison previously roamed the region, feeding on the tall grass prairies that originally blanketed the plains. The abundant soils of the Great Plains are used to cultivate crops like wheat, corn, and soybeans, making it a significant agricultural region today.

3. The Great Plains Were Once Home To Various Native American Tribes

Many Native American tribes, including the Sioux, Cheyenne, and Comanche, previously called the Great Plains home. These tribes were nomadic, moving with their herds that grazed on the plains. These animals served as their primary source of food, clothing, and shelter as they evolved a manner of life that was based on hunting and gathering.

Later, significant changes were brought about by the entrance of Europeans into the area in the 16th century, bringing with them horses and guns, which helped tribes hunt bison more successfully. Unfortunately, diseases brought by European settlers decimated Native American populations, and disputes over territory and resources led to bloody wars between settlers and tribes. Native American traditions and culture are still very important in the Great Plains today.

Read about 10 Famous Native American Women You Should Know About.

4. The Great Plains Experienced A Period Of Intensive Settlement And Development In The Late 19th Century

In the late 19th century, the Great Plains had a period of intense settlement and development, which had a significant impact on the region’s ecosystem and culture. Thanks to ‘The Homestead Act of 1862’ which provided free land to settlers who were prepared to cultivate the land and erect homes on it, resulted in a tremendous migration of people to the area.

5. The Introduction Of Barbed Wire, Railroads, And Dry Land Farming Techniques Was A Game Changer

Barbed wire. Photo by Robert Klank on

In order to connect the Great Plains to the rest of the nation and to facilitate the movement of both commodities and people, railroads were also built. Farmers also used new technologies to cultivate the plains and grow crops like wheat and corn, which played a significant role in the growth of agriculture during this era. Unfortunately, this extensive land use had a detrimental effect on the ecology of the area, leading to soil erosion.

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6. The Dust Bowl Of The 1930s Caused Severe Environmental And Economic Damage

The Great Plains were impacted by the Dust Bowl, a time of extreme dust storms and soil erosion, in the 1930s. Poor farming techniques, a drought, and a downturn in the economy all contributed to its cause. The region’s topsoil became incredibly dry and brittle, resulting in enormous dust storms that frequently covered the sun and gave locals respiratory difficulties. As a result, poverty struck and drove many farmers from their farms and across the country.

 In response, the federal government launched a number of programs, including the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Soil Conservation Service, targeted at soil conservation and economic recovery.

7. The Great Plains Is Home To a Diverse Range Of Wildlife

The Great Plains Is Home To a Diverse Range Of Wildlife. In the Great Plains, the prairie dog is a keystone species. Studies comparing species abundances in areas of colonization against areas with no prairie dog colonization show clear evidence that the prairie dog does have a significant impact on its surroundings by altering vegetation and therefore affecting habitat and food availability for other species. Many other species live on the grasslands, including deer, rabbits, mice, and many types of birds.

8. The Great Plains Is A Major Agricultural Region

The Great Plain’s economy depends heavily on the agricultural sector. The Great Plains produce a wide range of crops that help feed people all around the world. It is the perfect location for growing wheat, corn, and other grains, which are essential ingredients in many food products due to the rich soil and dry environment.

 In addition, the area produces a significant amount of beef, with huge herds of cattle grazing on the plains of grass. Together with conventional farming and ranching, the Great Plains are also home to an increasing number of organic and sustainable agriculture businesses that prioritize the well-being of the environment and the communities that depend on it.

 9. The Great Plains Is A Popular Destination For Outdoor Recreation

North America, road trip, great plains. Author CGP Grey.

Outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping, hiking, and animal viewing should visit the Great Plains. Grassy plains, craggy canyons, and rolling hills are just a few of the varied scenery that the area has to offer. It is home to numerous state and national parks, including South Dakota’s Badlands National Park, where tourists may explore the region’s unusual rock formations and see bison and other wildlife.

Many rivers and lakes can also be found in the Great Plains, offering opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing.

10. The Great Plains Has A Rich Cultural Heritage

Museum of the Great Plains. Author Jphill19.

The Native American, European, and African American elements that have influenced the Great Plains have resulted in a rich cultural history. Native American tribes in the area, such as the Sioux, Cheyenne, and Comanche, have a long and illustrious history, and their customs and beliefs still have an impact on the area today.

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