The Harrisburg Peneplain

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The Harrisburg Peneplain is a large erosional surface that covers much of central West Virginia, including Pocahontas County. It is a remnant of a much older peneplain that was created during the Paleozoic Era, when the region was much lower and flatter. The Harrisburg Peneplain was uplifted and dissected by rivers and streams during the Cenozoic Era, creating the present-day landscape of hills, valleys, and ridges.

The Harrisburg Peneplain is named after the city of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, which is located on a similar erosional surface. The Harrisburg Peneplain in West Virginia is about 1,000 to 1,500 feet (300 to 450 m) above sea level. It is characterized by a gently rolling topography with a few isolated hills and mountains. The soils on the Harrisburg Peneplain are generally fertile and well-drained, making the area ideal for agriculture.

The Harrisburg Peneplain is an important part of the natural landscape of West Virginia. It provides habitat for a variety of plants and animals, and it is also a popular destination for recreation, such as hiking, camping, and fishing.

Here are some additional details about the Harrisburg Peneplain:

• It is the largest peneplain in West Virginia, covering an area of about 4,000 square miles (10,000 square kilometers).
• It is thought to have been formed about 250 million years ago, during the Permian Period.
• The Harrisburg Peneplain is composed of sedimentary rocks, such as sandstone, shale, and limestone.
• The climate in the Harrisburg Peneplain is temperate, with hot summers and cool winters.
• The vegetation on the Harrisburg Peneplain is a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, including oak, hickory, maple, pine, and spruce.
• The Harrisburg Peneplain is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bear, turkey, and rabbits.