2020 Map of Birch Creek Reservoirs

About this map

Birch Creek Reservoirs anchor the southern portion of this high-elevation landscape in Rich County, where the terrain transitions from the protected timber of Cache National Forest into open ranching and grazing lands. The topography is defined by a series of prominent northwest-trending elevations, most notably Thousand Dollar Ridge and Lewis Ridge, which separate the various drainage basins. Hydrology plays a critical role in this arid environment, with numerous named water sources including Woodruff Spring, Putman Spring, and the Beaver Pond Spring providing vital points for livestock and wildlife. The map captures a traditional western mountain-and-valley economy, where seasonal grazing at Woodruff Pastures and travel along Big Creek Rd and Monte Cristo Rd connect the high ridges to the surrounding valley settlements.