1985 Map of Arch

About this map

Portales Valley defines the northern reaches of this high plains landscape, where the small community of Arch serves as a lone hub of settlement near the Texas state line. The terrain is marked by a complex system of depressions and intermittent water sources, most notably the basin of Little Salt Lake. This saline feature is complemented by a series of localized catchments including West Tank, Middle Tank, and East Tank, reflecting the essential nature of water management in this arid agricultural region. A lone Landing Strip near the northeastern corner suggests the importance of aerial access for ranching operations or crop management during the mid-1980s. The map illustrates a grid-like pattern of rural roads and section lines typical of the Llano Estacado, showing how human habitation has adapted to the broad, flat topography of Roosevelt County.