Answer: heartland

AnswerCrossword Clue
HEARTLANDCalifornia's Central Valley, e.g.
HEARTLANDMiddle America
HEARTLANDRegion symbolizing traditional values
HEARTLAND"Amber waves of grain" area
HEARTLANDVital region for a worm?
HEARTLANDMidwest and Plains states, e.g.
HEARTLANDMiddle of the country
HEARTLANDCountry's core
heartlandan area of a country that is centrally situated and/or vitally important
heartlandThe central or most important part of a country, area, or field of activity
heartlandThe center of support for a belief or movement
heartlandThe central part of the US; the Midwest