The Palouse region of southeastern Washington consists of some of the most fertile land in the States. The sensuous rolling silt dunes were formed during the last ice age and provide over 200 feet of fertile soil to make the region a center for wheat and lentil farming. The spring growth of these crops creates an Oz-like green patina to the countryside. Come summer and fall harvest time, the hills take on their golden cloaks. Here, the railroad tracks cut the landscape in two.