II. WaterA. Europe’s long coastline has hundreds

of good natural harbors.

These harbors are located near the mouths of navigable rivers, making Europe ideal for trade by sea. A navigable river is one that is deep enough and wide enough for shipping. Canals connect many rivers in Europe.

B. The Rhine and Danube are Europe’s most important rivers. Many cities are located along their banks and barges carry goods along their courses.

The Rhine flows northwestward through Germany and the Netherlands before entering the North Sea. The Danube flows eastward through central & eastern Europe and empties into the Black Sea.

III. Climates and BiomesA. Compared to world regions of similar

latitudes, much of Europe enjoys mild climates.

Winter temperatures are particularly mild for such high latitudes. These

mild temperatures are influenced by the North Atlantic Drift.

B. The North Atlantic Drift is a warm ocean current. It originates off the coast of North America and is fed by the warm tropical water of the

Gulf Stream.

The North Atlantic Drift warms the air above and these westerly winds carry

this warm moist air across much of northwestern Europe. The winds bring

mild temperatures and rain.

IV. Natural ResourcesA. Most of Europe’s original forests were

cleared centuries ago.

Clearing and overgrazing in ancient times destroyed nearly all of the original oak woodlands. Air pollution and acid rain have destroyed many more trees.

As a result, most European countries must now import lumber.

B. 1. Temperate forest – maple and oak

trees. Badgers, deer, and variety of birds.

2. Mediterranean scrub forest – small trees and shrubs. Wild boars and

sheep.3. Boreal forest – Where most of

Europe’s limited timber is located.4. Tundra – treeless land that is frozen most of year. Reindeer and foxes.

C. Europe produces many crops, such as large amounts of grapes, olives,

potatoes, and wheat.

Throughout history, fishing has been an important part of the European economy.

Coastal waters, particularly where the warm North Atlantic Drift mixes with cold polar waters are excellent fishing areas.

D. Europe does have large deposits of coal. Some countries, such as Germany, Britain, and Poland, have mined coal for hundreds of years.

During Europe’s industrial era (18th -19th century), coal and iron were essential to the creation of steel and

manufacturing industries.