Central Appalachian Xeric Shale Woodland (Virginia Pine / Sparse Herbs Type) – CEGL008525

A xeric shale woodland composed almost entirely of Virginia pines (Pinus virginiana) and colonies of reindeer lichens (Cladonia spp.).  This type of woodland barren is frequent in the west-central Ridge and Valley on strongly convex, stabilized shale slopes and crests.  On ridge above Potts Creek south of Blue Spring Run, Alleghany County.  James River Ranger District, George Washington & Jefferson National Forests.