1973 Map of Bell Lake

About this map

The arid landscape of Lea County, New Mexico, is defined by the critical infrastructure of the energy and ranching sectors in the early 1970s. Resource extraction is prominent throughout the quadrangle, evidenced by numerous Gas Well and Oil Well sites, alongside various Gravel Pit and Drill Hole locations. This industrial activity exists alongside traditional cattle ranching operations centered at the Double X Ranch. Water management is the primary driver of development in this dry terrain, where a network of windmills and storage systems are essential for survival. Named features like the Bell Lake Windmill, Slick Windmills, and Pipeline Windmill show the reliance on groundwater, while Red Tank and Jog Tank provide necessary storage. A prominent Pipeline and Jeep Trail cut across the landscape, connecting these remote outposts and utility stations like the Substation and Radio Tower.