2013 Map of Cow Canyon

About this map

Palomas and the surrounding high desert of Quay County are defined by a network of drainage canyons and cattle-watering infrastructure in this 2013 survey. The landscape is dominated by the massive Mesa Rica, which rises above a series of deep cuts including Spring Canyon, Cow Canyon, and Hondo Canyon. This area represents the arid ranching economy of eastern New Mexico, where the distribution of water is critical. This is evidenced by the numerous livestock tanks such as Kauffman Tank, Paul Tank, and S Privo Tank, alongside vital mechanical landmarks like the Spring Canyon Windmill and North Privo Windmill. The topography transitions from the high mesas down toward the winding course of Pajarito Creek, which is fed by various seasonal drainages like Vigil Canyon and the Arroyo de las Palomas. The map also clearly delineates the San Miguel Co Quay Co boundary as it cuts across the northern canyons.