Although some streams are usually dry in the spring, water is generally available deep below the surface. Plants growing here have to be adaptable and must be able to also tolerate occasional severe flooding. Terrace Community Old flood plains, which are usually higher than the reach of floodwaters, provide the land area for this community. This vegetation is extremely diverse, with variations dependent on the latitude, topography, and slope exposure. The predominant grayish-green color of most of the plants is caused by the minute white hairs that cover the foliage, protecting it against moisture loss.
Water comes mainly from annual precipitation.
The deep canyons cut the sedimentary rock layers, allowing natural aquifers to find outlets on canyon walls, talus slopes, or canyon bottoms, providing extra water in the form of seeps and springs. This moist environment provides a habitat for some very lush vegetation. This community is found along the Kaiparowits Plateau and Orange Cliffs areas of Glen Canyon. Its high elevation causes it to receive more moisture than other areas. The additional water and cooler temperatures enable large plants to thrive here.