2010 Map of Cucharas Reservoir

About this map

Cucharas Reservoir dominates the northwestern corner of this landscape in Las Animas County, held in place by the Cucharas Number 5 Dam. The surrounding terrain is defined by dry canyons and flat-topped landforms, most notably Cordova Mesa to the southeast and the broad expanse of Bustos Flat in the southwest. Water sources in this arid region are sparse but significant, including the Cucharas River and the isolated Maes Spring. A single primary corridor, Route 10, cuts a straight line diagonally across the center of the sheet, providing the main transit link through this sparsely settled territory. The map illustrates the geographical transition from the reservoir's edge to the high-plains features like Rattlesnake Canyon, showing a rural environment where land use is dictated by the rugged topography and limited water access.