Powder River Basin
Powder River Basin is a broad, arid ____________ and _________ spanning eastern Wyoming and southwestern Montana. Known for **coal deposits**, **cattle ranching**, and flat ________, it’s a key part of the regional economy and landscape. Expect wide-open skies, minimal tree cover__, and a semi-arid climate.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Northern Rockies and Plains |
| Subregion | Great Plains |
| Country | United States |
| State | WyomingMontana |
| County | Big Horn CountySheridan CountyJohnson CountyFurnace CreekWright CountyHot Springs County |
| District | Powder River Basin |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 44 |
| Longitude | -106 |
| Maps |
7:15 PM LOCAL TIMEPowder River Basin covers roughly 30,000 square kilometers of eastern Wyoming and southwestern Montana. It’s defined by glacial and alluvial sediments, abundant subsurface coal deposits, and a generally flat, open terrain. Major tributaries include the Tongue River and Powder River, which flow eastward across the region. The basin sits at elevations primarily between 1,000 and 3,000 meters, with a climate characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and relatively low annual precipitation. The region supports extensive cattle ranching, with significant grazing and hay production, and has historically been a zone of surface coal mining and energy development. Land use is a mix of private ranches, some federal lands, and sparse settlements; expect minimal urban or forest cover and wide views across plains and rolling uplands. Nearby natural features include Bighorn Mountains to the west and historic towns like Gillette, Sheridan, and Lame Deer provide access to services and cultural sites.
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