2013 Map of Banta Ridge

About this map

Banta Ridge and the Gilsonite Hills define this high-desert landscape in Rio Blanco County, where a complex network of seasonal water management is documented. The terrain is characterized by a series of engineered catchments along Cottonwood Creek, including the Upper Cottonwood Reservoir, Middle Cottonwood Reservoir, and Lower Cottonwood Reservoir. These features, along with Banta Flats Reservoir and Shavetail Reservoir, illustrate the critical importance of water storage in this arid portion of Western Colorado.