1967 Map of Hagen Gap

About this map

Burgess Ranch and its surrounding water systems anchor this mid-1960s study of the high plains in Garfield County. The landscape is defined by an intricate network of drainage channels, including Woody Creek and its East Fork, alongside numerous named coulees such as Arnold Coulee, Slack Coulee, and Nannestead Coulee. These features reflect a ranching economy dependent on scarce water resources, marked by the presence of small impoundments like Fork Reservoir, Cottonwood Reservoir, and Thomas Reservoir. Significant vertical relief is found at Lambs Butte and the eponymous Hagen Gap, while isolated landmarks like Lester Well and Christmas Well indicate the importance of groundwater for survival in this arid environment.