The Southwestern Region of the USDA Forest Service represents 20.6 million acres of public lands. Our region is comprised of 11 national forests in Arizona and New Mexico; and 4 national grasslands (across New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma). These National Forest System lands are marked by sudden bursts of alpine peaks, colorful mesas, and breathtaking canyons. This sun-baked region also features wild whitewater rivers and clear mountain streams. Renowned for its culture, this area's unique heritage is clearly visible in its wealth of prehistoric and historic sites and in the lives of many of its people who still celebrate the ways of centuries past. The region ranges in elevation from 1,600 feet above sea level and an annual rain fall of 8 inches in Arizona's lower Sonoran Desert, to 13,171-foot high Wheeler Peak and over 35 inches of precipitation a year in northern New Mexico.

NOTE: All photos in this Flickr photostream are public domain. Please credit USDA Forest Service when using an image.