Most of Section is Cretaceous marine shales, with some sandstones in the extreme northwest. Quaternary windblown dune sands and loess often cover the Cretaceous shales. There are mesic and therimc temperature and ustic moisture regimes. Soils include Mollisols and Alfisols. Potential Natural Vegetation.
Predominant vegetation is grass and prairie communities.
Bison, wolves, and black-footed ferrets are historically associated with this Section. Present large mammals include white-tailed deer, mule deer, and a small population of pronghorn antelope. Typical small mammals include bobcat, red fox, jackrabbit, cottontail, and prairie dog. Summer nesters include Swainson's hawk, blue-winged teal, and ruddy duck. The goshawk may be a rare winter resident.