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1951 Map of Dutch Nick Flat

Name: 1951 Topographic Map of Dutch Nick Flat
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1952
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1952

About this map

Dutch Nick Flat defines this high desert landscape in Washakie County, where water management dictated the pattern of early ranching and settlement. The map traces the critical network of irrigation infrastructure along the southern edge, including the Holder Ditch, Peterson Ditch, and the Holly and Niccolls Ditch, all drawing from the waters of Gooseberry Creek. These man-made channels provided the lifeblood for the arid region, supporting local centers like the Shryack School.

Further north, the terrain is carved by the drainages of Fifteenmile Creek, including its Middle Fork and South Fork. The absence of large towns highlights the reliance on isolated landmarks like a lone Windmill or specific Well sites. This survey captures a moment when the Missouri River Basin development program was actively documenting the vital water resources and drainage systems that supported the Wyoming ranching economy.