54 RURAL NEW YORK 



northern rim of the southern plateau where also local 

 storms most frequently occur. 



Disastrous floods occur in all parts of the State on 

 occasion and are determined somewhat by the condi- 

 tion of the drainage system. Abnormal rainfall is 

 most common in the Central Lakes and southern 

 plateau region in association with the prevalence of 

 local storms. In such cases a rainfall of several 

 inches may fall in a few hours and constitute what is 

 known as a " cloudburst." Such downpours are very 

 destructive as a result of erosion and flooding. 



The distribution of crops in New York State is 

 determined in considerable measure by these local 

 differences in climate. The fruit regions have a 

 long growing season and a stability of winter climate 

 that protect against winter-injury. Corn, beans, cab- 

 bage and vegetables thrive best in the lowland regions 

 of high summer temperature and high humidity. 

 This localizes their extensive production very largely 

 to the central part of the Great Lakes province and 

 the Long Island and lower Hudson divisions. Po- 

 tatoes are grown most extensively under the cool 

 climate of Long Island, northern New York and the 

 west central plateau region. Different factors com- 

 bine in these regions to produce conditions favor- 

 able to particular crops. Grapes are grown under 

 the influence of the dry sunny climate of the Erie 

 Lake plain and the Central Lakes region, combined 

 with immunity from frost, part of which is secured 

 by elevation and the careful selection of the slope. 

 For the forage and vegetable crops, one of the most 



