Provides information on how mountains are formed and how they change, the special characteristics of mountain wildlife and ecosystems, the extreme nature of mountain weather, and how people use and abuse mountain resources.

"General overview of mountain, desert, and grassland ecosystems, including an exploration of disturbances these ecosystems face due to human interference and climate change; and current conservation and reclamation efforts. Features include fact boxes, sidebars, activities, glossary, list of recommended reading and Web sites, and index"--Provided by publisher.