Ecology of Dakota Landscapes by W. Carter Johnson and Dennis H. Knight

W. Carter Johnson and Dennis H. Knight describe the natural and human histories of the Northern Great Plains in this comprehensive and handsomely illustrated book. Covering a vast period of time, they move from geological developments millions of years ago and the effects of glaciers to historical and ecological developments in recent centuries and the effects of agriculture. The book ends with a discussion of the future of this region, mediated by climate change, with recommendations on how to balance agriculture and other pressing needs in the twenty-first century.

Johnson and Knight bring decades of experience to chapters on the major ecosystems of the Dakotas. Written for readers with varying backgrounds, and with discussions of the Prairie Pothole Region, the Missouri River, grasslands, woodlands, the Black Hills, and rivers, lakes, and wetlands, the book is unique and will become a long-lasting source of information. Readers will appreciate the plentiful photographs and other color illustrations.

Paperback
336 pages
ISBN: 9780300253818

About the author: W. Carter Johnson is professor emeritus at South Dakota State University. Dennis H. Knight, professor emeritus at University of Wyoming is the author of Mountains and plains: The ecology of Wyoming Landscapes. 

Image description: The cover shows a prairie landscape typical of the Dakota region, with grasslands some small ponds and a blue sky filled clouds. The authors' names are show at the top of the cover, and the title is shown on the bottom half of the cover.