The Land of Forests and Plains

@West Elizabeth is a state of dramatic landscapes, transitioning from the wide-open expanse of the Great Plains in the east to the rugged, forested terrain of the Tall Trees region in the west.

The Regional Climates of West Elizabeth

The @Great Plains: The Rolling Frontier

  • Overview: The easternmost region of the state, the Great Plains is a vast, open expanse of grassland. The climate is continental, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The lack of cover leaves the land and its inhabitants exposed to the elements.

  • Seasonal Breakdown:

    • Spring: A volatile season with frequent thunderstorms and sudden temperature shifts.

    • Summer: Characterized by scorching, humid days with temperatures in the 80−95∘F range.

    • Autumn: Cool, crisp weather with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, perfect for travel.

    • Winter: Cold and windy, with temperatures often dropping to freezing. Snowfall can occur but is generally less severe than in the mountains.

  • Regional Specifics:

    • Weather Events & Disasters: The Great Plains are known for violent thunderstorms, hailstorms, and high winds.

    • Livelihood & Sustenance: This region is a hunter's paradise, teeming with wildlife such as bison and deer. Ranches are prevalent, particularly around the city of Blackwater.

    • Holidays & Social Events:

      • The Great Plains Festival (Late July): A week-long celebration of the region's agricultural and industrial success. The festival features a large Ferris wheel, musical performances, livestock competitions, and a grand parade through the city's main thoroughfares, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over Flat Iron Lake.

      • The Blackwater Derby (Early June): An annual horse-racing event held on the outskirts of the city. The derby attracts the finest steeds and jockeys from across the country, drawing large crowds of gamblers, socialites, and enthusiasts. The event concludes with a lavish gala hosted by the city's elite.

      • Founder's Day (October 10th): A city-wide holiday honoring the founders of Blackwater. The day is marked by patriotic speeches from the city's mayor, historical reenactments, and a display of Blackwater's progress and modernity. It's a day for the city to showcase its grandeur and prosperity.

@Big Valley: The Alpine Paradise

  • Overview: Situated in the north-central part of West Elizabeth, Big Valley is a picturesque region of rolling hills and dense forests. The climate is mild and temperate, with the higher elevations, such as Mount Shann, experiencing colder temperatures and light snow.

  • Seasonal Breakdown:

    • Spring: The valley comes to life with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers.

    • Summer: A warm, comfortable season with temperatures in the 75−90∘F range. The dense forests offer a pleasant shade from the sun.

    • Autumn: The leaves change color, creating a vibrant landscape of reds and golds.

    • Winter: Colder temperatures bring light snowfall to the higher elevations, while the valley floor remains mostly clear.

  • Regional Specifics:

    • Weather Events & Disasters: While generally mild, the higher elevations can experience blizzards and strong winds. Forest fires can be a threat in dry summer months.

    • Livelihood & Sustenance: This region is ideal for hunting, trapping, and fishing. The temperate climate also allows for small-scale farming and homesteading.

    • Holidays & Social Events:

      • The Strawberry Crafts & Arts Faire (Mid-September): An annual event celebrating the artisan spirit of Strawberry. Local craftsmen and artists set up stalls to sell their wares, from hand-carved furniture to intricate paintings. The faire attracts visitors from all over West Elizabeth and even New Hanover.

      • The Autumn Harvest (Late October): A community gathering held at MacFarlane's Ranch to celebrate the end of the harvest season. It is a more rustic and informal event than the city celebrations, featuring traditional folk music, square dancing, and a feast of locally grown produce and hunted game.

@Tall Trees: The Wild Frontier

  • Overview: The westernmost region of West Elizabeth, Tall Trees is a dangerous, wild, and heavily forested area. It is known for its treacherous terrain and large predators. The climate is generally cool and damp, with no snow at lower elevations.

  • Seasonal Breakdown:

    • Spring: A wet season, with heavy rain and muddy conditions.

    • Summer: Humid and dense due to the forest canopy.

    • Autumn: The forest becomes a spectacle of color, and the air is cool and still.

    • Winter: Cold and quiet, with temperatures ranging from 20−45∘F. The lack of snow makes the dampness feel more penetrating.

  • Regional Specifics:

    • Weather Events & Disasters: The dense forests are prone to powerful windstorms, and getting lost is a constant threat. The region is also infamous for its large population of bears, wolves, and cougars.

    • Livelihood & Sustenance: This region is not suitable for agriculture. Life revolves around hunting, trapping, and foraging for survival.

    • Holidays & Social Events: Due to its isolation and hostile environment, there are no notable public events or holidays. Survival is the main priority.

Notable Settlements of West Elizabeth

  • The Great Plains:

    • Blackwater: A large, modern, and prosperous city located on the shores of Flat Iron Lake. It is a hub of commerce, politics, and culture.

    • @Beecher's Hope: The farm and homestead built by John Marston and his family in the epilogue of the story.

  • Big Valley:

    • Strawberry: A small, picturesque town known for its rustic charm and its eccentric mayor, who is attempting to turn it into a tourist destination.

  • Tall Trees:

    • @Manzanita Post: A remote trading post and trapper's camp that serves as a base for those brave enough to venture into the region.

    • @Bearclaw Camp: A small, isolated camp deep in the woods, offering little more than a temporary shelter for trappers and hunters.