2012 Map of Banner

About this map

Kearny and the surrounding high plains landscape are defined by a complex network of early water management and landmark ridges in this 2012 survey. The topography is anchored by distinctive elevations such as Massacre Hill, Lodge Trail Ridge, and Sullivant Hill, which overlook the drainages of Piney Cr and Little Piney Cr. Settlement patterns are concentrated near the southern half of the sheet, where the Little Piney Cem and the small community of Banner serve as local touchstones. The importance of irrigation in this semi-arid region is evident through an extensive system of man-made waterways including the Highline Ditch, Leiter Ditch, and Upper Phil Kearny Ditch. To the southeast, the waters of Lake De Smet and Shell Creek Reservoir provide significant catchments, while the broad expanse of Mooney Draw and Nelson Draw illustrate the natural erosion patterns carving through the plateau.