Algific talus slope

Algific talus slopes comprise a very rare, fragile ecosystem and habitat initially believed to exist only in the Driftless Area of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, and especially, Iowa.

[2] It has been suggested that close comparison with similar sites worldwide may enlarge the distribution, or that the term may become restricted to the flora and fauna characteristic of these zones within the Driftless Area.

[5][6] The great majority of the protected sites are closed to the general public, and in fact, are notably undocumented on the net, in order to keep them out of the eye of those who would vandalize them.

[citation needed] One place that can be visited, however, is Bixby State Preserve, in southwestern Clayton County, Iowa.

The Northern monkshood is a threatened wildflower in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) occurring in the Driftless Area as well as in New York State and receives similar protection.