1988 Map of Desert Creek Ranch

About this map

Smith Valley and the northern reaches of the Wellington Hills define this western Nevada landscape, where high-desert agriculture meets mineral exploration near the Lyon and Douglas County line. The northern portion of the map is dominated by the irrigation network of the Plymouth Canal and Saroni Canal, illustrating the vital role of water management in sustaining local ranching at Desert Creek Ranch. Further south, the terrain rises into the Toiyabe National Forest, characterized by steep ridges and canyons such as Dalzell Canyon and Dameron Canyon. This 1980s survey captures a transition point in the local economy, documented by the numerous prospects and named operations like the Smith Valley Mine and Jackpot Mine scattered across the eastern slopes near Valley Point, indicating the persistent legacy of mining in the region.