Animals and Plants
Plants
The forests, prairies, meadows, and wetlands in Mt. Hood National Forest are home to all kinds of plants, both native and non-native. Spring and summer snowmelt often gives way to a spectacular display of wildflowers in the high-elevation meadows on Mt. Hood.
Native Plants
Native plants are crucial for supporting local ecosystems, wildlife, and biodiversity, acting as the foundation for food chains and providing essential habitat and food sources. They also offer benefits like reduced water and maintenance needs, and help with soil health and erosion control.
Want to learn how to find, identify, and grow native plants? The Native Plant Society of Oregon is a non-profit group dedicated to the enjoyment, conservation, and study of Oregon’s native plants and habitats. Join a local chapter to get involved!
Invasive Plants
Invasive, non-native plants can displace native plants and cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage statewide each year. Be on the lookout for invasive, non-native plant species. Learn to identify them, and report them. Equally important is learning how to prevent spreading them! Learn more through the Oregon Invasive Species Council.
Animals
Many species of amphibians, birds, butterflies, mammals and more can be found in Mt. Hood National Forest. Some species may use the Forest during migration, some spend the breeding season here, and others live here year-round. ODFW has a useful online guide to animals across the state; look for ones that are described as living in the northern Cascade Range or its foothills.