Plants: The climate in California and the Pacific Northwest is varied, ranging from coastal rainforests to deserts, and as a result, there is a wide variety of plant life available. Early people were able to gather fruits, nuts, berries, and other edible plants, as well as use wood for building and fire. Some of the important plant resources for early people included:
- Acorns
- Pine nuts
- Manzanita berries
- Salmonberries
- Huckleberries
- Camas root
- Wapato
Animals: The region was also home to a variety of animals, including deer, elk, bears, rabbits, fish, and shellfish. Early people hunted these animals for food and used their skins and furs for clothing and shelter. Some of the hunted animals included:
- Deer
- Elk
- Bear
- Rabbit
- Fish
- Shellfish
Water: California and the Pacific Northwest have numerous rivers, lakes, and streams, which provided early people with a source of drinking water and transportation. Many early settlements were located near water sources, and rivers were used for trade and travel.
Minerals: The region also has a number of mineral deposits, including gold, silver, copper, and obsidian. Early people used these minerals to make tools, weapons, and jewelry. Obsidian, in particular, was a valuable resource for making sharp cutting tools.
These resources were essential for the survival and development of early people in California and the Pacific Northwest. They provided the basis for their diet, shelter, clothing, and transportation, and allowed them to adapt and thrive in their environment.
