1985 Map of Dale Lake

About this map

Sheep Hole Mountains and the Bullion Mountains converge in this arid San Bernardino County landscape, dominated by the expansive dry basin of Dale Lake. This mid-1980s provisional study highlights the industrial character of the basin, where an extensive network of Levee and Levees suggests salt or mineral extraction operations common to these California playas. The presence of the Bush mine and the intersection of Amboy Road with Ironage Road provide evidence of the isolated transit and resource-extraction history of the Mojave Desert. The map's detail on terrain and water management features reveals how humanity modified this severe environment for industrial utility during the late 20th century.