2020 Map of Basque

About this map

Basque and the nearby Mendi Gori Posue anchor this high-desert portion of Malheur County, reflecting the deep ranching and cultural heritage of the region. The landscape is defined by its water management, evidenced by a network of catchments including Bad News Reservoir, Big Bend Reservoir, and Bellmare Reservoir. These scattered water sources underscore the reliance on seasonal runoff to sustain livestock in an arid environment. Transportation through this remote terrain is limited to essential corridors like Crooked Creek Rd and Beber Ranch Rd, which follow the natural contours of the drainages. This survey documents the intersection of vast public land boundaries and the critical water infrastructure—such as Corral Reservoir and Black Sage Reservoir—that makes high-country grazing possible.