Regions of Texas The Coastal Plains p. 48 - 54

The Most Populated Region The largest natural region in Texas. The Coastal Plains vary from being completely flat to having rolling hills. Home to more Texans than any other natural region. A plentiful water supply, coupled with its flat land, make the Coastal Plains ideal for farming and ranching.

The Most Populated Region Natural Resources: Lumber Cotton Rice Vegetables Grains Grasses for cattle Oil (Spindletop)

The Most Populated Region Goods from the other natural regions of Texas funnel into the seaports of the Coastal Plains to the rest of the world. Likewise, goods arriving from other nations enter Texas for further distribution. The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, a protected shipping channel, links Texas to the southern United States and the world.

The Most Populated Region The Coastal Plains Region has 5 different geographic subsections: Piney Woods Gulf Coast Plains Post Oak Belt Blackland Prairie South Texas Plain All five sections lie on the plain near the Gulf of Mexico. There are many differences in vegetation, wildlife, and other natural resources of each section.

The Piney Woods Gets its name from the pine trees that cover much of the land. Economic growth in the Piney Woods region occurred thanks to the presence of wood and oil. Farming is an important economical activity. The long growing season allows a variety of fruits and vegetables to be grown.

The Gulf Coast Plain Heavy strands of grass grown in this region provides excellent feed for cattle. Cattle raising is the most important agricultural activity in this part of Texas. The long growing season allows farmers to grow many kinds of crops, including rice, cotton, and grain sorghum. Some of this region is heavily industrialized – mostly related to gas and oil products. This region contains the 2nd largest seaport in the U.S. – Houston.

The Post Oak Belt Contains many oak trees and other hardwood trees. Many crops grown in this area include corn, grains, cotton, peanuts pecans, hay, watermelon, peaches and Christmas trees. Livestock graze in the area. Education and light industry thrive here. (Texas A&M)

The Blackland Prairie Contains more of the states larger cities than any other region. Much of Texas’ manufacturing takes place here. Because of it’s fertile soil, this area is one of the most important agricultural regions in the state. Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin are some of the large cities in the Blackland Prairie.

South Texas Plains Drier than the Gulf Coast Plains. Vegetation includes plants that require little water. Many people earn their living in agriculture- the growing season is more than 10 months. The southern most part of this region is called the Lower Rio Grande Valley where fruit is grown. Texas is one of the nations four largest producers of oranges, grapefruits, and lemons.

Using your pencil, lightly shade the Coastal Plains region on your map