Mexico

​Much of the interior landscape of Mexico consists of a high, mostly rugged region called the Mexican Plateau. The plateau’s lowest point is more than a half mile above sea level. Its highest point is close to two miles above sea level. The entire plateau spreads between two mountain ranges that rise still higher. One range, the Sierra Madre Oriental, lies in the east. The other, the Sierra Madre Occidental, lies in the west. Together, these two mountain ranges and another shorter one in southern Mexico make up the Sierra Madre, or “mother range.”

​From snowcapped mountain peaks to warm, sunny beaches, Mexico has many different climates. You can see Mexico’s climate regions on the map. This great variety of climates results in several different types of vegetation.

​The valleys along Mexico’s southern coastal areas also have pleasant climates. Warm temperatures and a summer rainy season support the forests that cover about 25 percent of Mexico’s land area. Tropical rain forests provide a home for jaguars, monkeys, anteaters, and other animals.

​Mexico is rich in natural resources. One of its most important resources is petroleum, or oil. Oil reserves are found mainly under the southern and Gulf coastal plains as well as offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. Mexico sells much of its oil to the United States.

​Before oil was discovered in Mexico, minerals were the country’s most valuable resource. Some gold and silver mines that were begun many centuries ago are still in operation. In addition, new mines have been developed in Mexico’s mountains. Today Mexico’s mines produce more silver than any other country in the world. Mexican mines also yield large amounts of copper, gold, lead, and zinc.

​Another important resource is water. The refreshing water surrounding Mexico draws many tourists to the country’s scenic beaches. Unfortunately, drinking water is limited in many parts of Mexico. Water scarcity is a serious issue.