Pacific Northwest Natural Areas
 

 

 

 


 

Gumjuwac-Tolo Research Natural Area

Mount Hood National Forest , USFS

East Cascades, Oregon Ecoregion

Cell(s):

  • Grand fir-Englemann spruce/starry solomon seal
  • Grand fir/skunkleaf polemonium
 

The Gumjuwac-Tolo RNA, located in Hood River and Wasco Counties, Oregon, is a 1,400 ha tract located within the boundaries of both the Mt. Hood National Forest and the Badger Creek Wilderness. The natural area occupies the north slope of the upper Badger Creek watershed with elevations ranging from 975 m. to 1898 m. The topography generally has a southern aspect, but small streams, benches, and knolls interrupt the slope. In addition, the topography of the eastern portion of the tract is especially complex and all aspects are represented. The RNA lies in the Grand Fir zone. The plant associations at the highest elevations include subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa) and mountain hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana), while grand fir (Abies grandis) dominates the central and lower portions of the tract. Additionally, Pacific silver fir (Abies amabilis) associations are found in the western portions, and Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) associations are found on dry, rocky areas in the eastern section. The role of natural fire on the vegetation of Gumjuwac-Tolo RNA is considered to be significant. Vegetation changes, along with climate cycles, drive fire, insect, and disease activity. Presently, vegetation and fuel accumulations within most of the tract are in the range of natural conditions. However, higher than normal fuel accumulations may exist in the eastern third of the RNA, where dry grand fir and Douglas fir communities can be found.

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Access by trail

Publication: Gumjuwac-Tolo Research Natural Area Est. Rpt. or Guidelines
GumjuwacToloRNA.pdf