Physical Features

Vegetation

The vegetation of the District is predominantly tropical rainforest. Therefore the District has a number of forest reserves including Subri River Forest Reserve, which occupies about 375 square kilometers and the Pra Suhyen Forest Reserve covering approximately 204 square kilometers. The others are the Ben West Block Forest Reserve and Ben East Forest Reserve. These forests are the semblance of virgin forest in the District.

Landscape

The District lies within the low-lying areas of the region with most parts below 150 metres above sea level. The landscape is generally undulating with most part of it being highlands. It has an average height of about 70 metres. The highest elevation ranges between 150 and 200 metres above sea level.

Climate

The District falls within the tropical climate zone. The mean annual rainfall is 1500 mm and ranges from 1300 to 2000 mm. The wet period in the District is between March and July while November to February is dry. The rainfall pattern is favourable for agricultural activities.

Drainage/rivers

The District is endowed with many rivers and streams. The major river Pra, runs through Twifo Hemang Lower Denkyira District through Daboase to Shama. Other rivers are the Subri and Whini which serve as tributaries to the Pra River. While most of the rivers overflow their banks in the rainy season, some virtually dry out in the dry season. The drainage system of Wassa East District largely follows dendrite and radial patterns.

Soils, geology and minerals

There are four main categories of rock and soil types which underlie the District namely: Lower Birimian, Cape Coast granite and Tarkwaian. More than half of the soil consists of Cape Coast granitic soils. Existing underground rocks in certain communities hinder the drilling of water facilities. The District has large deposits of gold and traces of iron hence the upsurge of mining activities which has resulted in the pollution of water resources in the District.