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2016 Map of Anderson Mesa

Name: 2016 Topographic Map of Anderson Mesa
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2016
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2016

About this map

The Dolores River carves a deep path through the canyonlands of western Colorado, defining the landscape around Anderson Mesa and Andys Mesa. This 2016 survey captures a region of dramatic topographic shifts, where the high plateau of Ray Mesa and Skein Mesa overlooks a complex network of seasonal watercourses and remote landmarks. The serpentine course of the river creates distinctive features like Muleshoe Bend, near where the Muleshoe Bend Reservoir provides a critical water source in an arid environment.

Evidence of human movement and land use is found in the sparse grid of local routes such as JJB RD and Co RD 21, which navigate the difficult terrain of Silveys Pocket and Little Gypsum Valley. The map also identifies vital water points for cattle or travelers, including Skein Spring and East Island Mesa Spring, which are essential for navigating the dry benches and high country near the Montrose and San Miguel County line.