2014 Map of Alder

About this map

The Ruby River corridor in Madison County defines this landscape of sophisticated irrigation and mountain drainage. Small settlements like Laurin, Alder, and Ruby are connected by a network of historic ditches and canals, including the Ruby Valley Ditch, Combs Ditch Number Two, and the W Bench Canal. This infrastructure reflects the region's agricultural and mining legacy, particularly around Alder Gulch and McNeal Gulch. The map identifies significant genealogical markers such as the Laurin Cem and Taylor Cem, alongside family-named landmarks like Peterson Ln and Salmonsen Ln. The terrain transitions from the broad Ruby Valley to the steep elevations of Beatch Canyon and Wilcox Canyon, illustrating the complex water management required to move resources from high-altitude creeks like Quaking Aspen Cr to the valley floor.