Physical Regions of Canada's Northwest Territories: Shield, Interior Plains, Rockies

The NWT comprises three physiographic regions:

• Canadian Shield (NE): Exposed Precambrian rock; rolling terrain, many lakes/rivers, sparse vegetation.
• Interior Plains (West of Shield to Rockies): Sedimentary bedrock; flat to gentle terrain; fertile soils; oil, gas, coal resources.
• Rocky Mountains (Western boundary): Rugged, high elevation, alpine climate.

These regions define the territory's geography, resources, and ecosystems.