Fifth Grade
Worksheets
White Sands National Monument
There is a large area of white sand in New Mexico. It is called White Sands National Monument. The white sand is caused by gypsum. Gypsum is a very common soft mineral. It is often found with sedimentary rocks. Gypsum usually dissolves in water. It is rare to find gypsum sand. However, here you will find 275 square miles of white gypsum sand. That is why this area is protected as a national monument. The world's largest gypsum dune field is found at White Sands National Monument. A dune is a large hill of sand created by wind. There are four different types of dunes at White Sands National Monument.
Plants and animals who live at White Sands have adapted to the harsh environment. Many animals that live here are white. This is so they blend with the sand. Many desert animals are nocturnal. They come out at night when the temperature .....
