The Wealth of the Rockies

Since the gold rushes of pioneer days, the Rockies have yielded large amounts of minerals, especially metals. Some of the world's largest mining centers dot the mountains. Copper, gold, lead, silver, uranium, and zinc are the principal metals mined. Manganese, mercury, molybdenum, and tungsten are produced in smaller amounts. Oil, coal, and phosphate rock are the chief non-metals. There are also large reserves of oil shale and low-grade coal.

Timber resources are enormous in the Rockies, and much lumber is produced. Evergreen trees, including pines, spruces, firs, larches, hemlocks, and cedars, make up much of the forests. The federal government, with more than 40 national forests, controls most of the forested land in the American Rockies. Rushing mountain rivers have been harnessed to develop electricity for industry and homes in many areas. Mountain valleys, basins, and low slopes provide rich pastures for millions of sheep and cattle. In some areas irrigation has increased the production of many crops.

The resort and tourist industry in the Rockies is of great importance. Visitors are attracted by the majestic mountains, healthful climate, and winter and summer sports and recreation. National parks offer the finest mountain scenery. Rocky Mountain, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone national parks are in the United States. Waterton Lakes, Kootenay, Yoho, Mount Revelstoke, Banff, and Jasper national parks are in Canada. Both countries have parks named Glacier National Park.