2011 Map of Cottonwood Basin

About this map

Cottonwood Basin and the adjacent Potter Basin define this landscape of the Uncompahgre Plateau, showing a sophisticated network of high-elevation water management. The area is marked by a dense concentration of reservoirs and dams, many bearing family or descriptive names such as the Harry White Reservoirs, Lower Ed Lee Number 2 Reservoir, and Bullfrog Reservoir. This water infrastructure suggests a history of livestock grazing and agricultural support for the surrounding Montrose County region. Settlement is sparse, represented by Fall Cabin Camp in the western reaches. The terrain is deeply incised by drainages like Dry Fork Escalante Creek and Monitor Creek, which flow toward the canyon country. Prominent landmarks like Peach Orchard Point offer navigational reference in this high-country environment.