2011 Map of Copeland Reservoirs

About this map

Copeland Butte and the surrounding high desert of Malheur County define this landscape of water management in an arid climate. The map reveals an intricate network of small catchments and reservoirs, many named for local families or geographical features, including Robinson Reservoir, Esplin Reservoir, and Kid Flat Reservoir. These features, along with names like Little Joe Reservoir and Hard Rock Reservoir, speak to the region's ranching heritage and the necessity of capturing seasonal runoff from drainages like Butte Creek and Wildcat Creek. The remote nature of the area is underscored by the sparse road network, primarily consisting of Antelope Flat Rd and Crowley Rd, which provide the only major access through the Antelope Flat and Little Mud Flat regions. This 2011 survey documents a landscape where every creek fork, such as West Fork Juniper Creek Reservoir, has been utilized for water storage.