The phrase to google is "biogeoclimatic ecosystem classification". It's a comprehensive system of ecological classification taking into account (as the name implies) biological, geological, and climatic factors. Was developed by Dr. V. J. Krajina of the University of BC. I suspect that the extension of this system beyond the confines of British Columbia would be the key to the question being discussed in this thread. -- Rodger Whitlock Victoria, British Columbia, Canada Maritime Zone 8, a cool Mediterranean climate on beautiful Vancouver Island http://maps.google.ca/maps/…