Coniferous woodland ecosystems in the study area have open coniferous tree canopies. They occur in drier climates, on rocky knolls, and on steep south–facing slopes where limited moisture or shallow soil limited tree establishment. These ecosystems have scattered ponderosa pine and interior Douglas–fir trees, and saskatoon growing in rock fractures with patches of grasses and forbs in shallow soil pockets. Historically, these ecosystems would have burned frequently, except on sites with minimal vegetation and lots of exposed rock. Fire exclusion has resulted in forest in-growth and encroachment (on grassland mosaics) on some sites.

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Many wildlife species are reliant on the coniferous woodlands for food, water, shelter, and space. Unfortunately, habitat has been devastated by wild fires, Mountain Pine Beetle, and poor logging practices.

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Some of the Species At Risk found within Coniferous Woodlands are: Western Rattlesnake, Swainson’s Hawk, Flammulated Owl, White-headed Woodpecker, Rubber Boa, Nevada Skipper.