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In 1925, Haiti was a lush tropical paradise,
with 60% of its original forest covering the lands and mountainous
regions. Since then, the population has cut down all but 2% of its
forest cover, and in the process has destroyed fertile farmland
soils, while contributing to desertification.[20] Erosion has been
severe in the mountainous areas. Pictures from space glaringly show
the stark difference in forestation between Haiti and the neighboring
Dominican Republic[citation needed]. Most Haitian logging is done
to produce charcoal, the country's chief source of fuel. The plight
of Haiti's forests has attracted international attention, and has
led to numerous reforestation efforts, but these have met with little
success to date.
Despite the large environmental crises,
Haiti retains a very high amount of biodiversity in proportion to
its small size. The country is home to more than 6,000 plants in
which 35% are endemic and 220 species of birds in which 21 species
are endemic. The country's high biodiversity is due to its mountainous
topography and fluctuating elevations in which each elevation harbors
different microclimates and its own endemic fauna and flora.
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The country's varied scenery include
lush green cloud forests (in some of the mountain ranges and
the protected areas), high mountain peaks, cactus-strewn desert
landscapes (due to the deforestation), and palm tree-lined
beaches.
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Haiti's
terrain consists mainly of rugged mountains with small coastal plains
and river valleys. The country's largest crop-producing and one
of Haiti's most fertile river valleys is the Plaine de l'Artibonite.
The east and central part of the island is a large elevated plateau.
The highest point in Haiti is Pic la Selle at 2,680 m (8,793 feet).
The 360-km (224-mile) border is shared with the Dominican Republic.
Haiti also contains several islands. The famous island of Tortuga
(Île de la Tortue) is located off the coast of northern Haiti.
The arrondissement of La Gonâve is located on the island of
the same name, in the Gulf of Gonave. Gonave Island is moderately
populated by rural villagers. Île à Vache (Island of
The Cow) is located off the tip of southwestern Haiti. It is a rather
lush island with many beautiful sights. Also part of Haiti are the
Cayemites and Ile de Anacaona. 
