These areas produce very little vegetation, due in part to poor soil conditions and low rainfall. Rolling grasslands towards the south consist primarily of Indian ricegrass and alkali sacaton. Interspersed throughout the southwest and northern portions of the wilderness are sandstone-capped mesas and one area that contains a remnant population of pondorosa pine trees. Natural forces have slowly eroded these formations into interesting land forms. Evidence of this region's past can now be found throughout the badlands in the form of numerous petrified logs, dinosaur bones, mammal fossils, and other plant and animal fossils.
Federal law prohibits the collection of any fossil resources.
Collection of petrified wood and other fossil material interferes with scientific research and eliminates the opportunity for others to view, sketch, and photograph these unique features of the wilderness. Ferruginous hawks, prairie falcons, and golden eagles may also be observed soaring overhead. Remember, the wilderness is home for these birds and animals and you are the visitor. Preserving these values involves protecting the area's natural qualities, outstanding opportunities for solitude and primitive types of recreation, and the area's special features. Wilderness must be used in ways that will leave it unimpaired for the use and enjoyment of future generations.