2017 Map of Bayard SW

About this map

North Platte River braided channels dominate this landscape in western Nebraska, defining the irrigation-dependent agriculture of Scotts Bluff County. The intricate web of engineered waterways, including the Tri-State Canal, Ninemile Canal, and Castle Rock Canal, illustrates the region's reliance on diverting river water to support the surrounding plains. Small railroad-aligned settlements and rural hubs like Minatare and McGrew anchor the transport network, while family-named locales such as Baxter, Tony, and Bradley mark the transition between the valley floor and the higher rangeland. The presence of Long Island within the river corridor and numerous drainage features like the Moffat Drain and Minatare Drain reveal a highly modified riparian environment designed for maximum agricultural utility.