2022 Map of Center South

About this map

The agricultural landscape of the San Luis Valley is defined by a rigorous grid of section lines and irrigation works, crossing the boundaries of Rio Grande Co, Saguache Co, and Alamosa Co. The town of Center anchors the northwest corner of the map, while small named locales like Ansel, Dunul, and Vastine mark the intersections and sidings of this productive valley floor. The geography is fundamentally shaped by water management, seen in the engineered paths of the Rio Grande Drain, the Hiline Lateral, and the Raney Ditch. These features, along with the Prairie Ditch and Rio Grande Lateral Number 1, illustrate the complex system required to sustain the region's farms. Transport and aviation also play a role in this rural landscape, with Van Treese Airport and McCullough Airport serving as local hubs for the surrounding townships.