1956 Map of Ikpikpuk River

About this map

The Colville River flows along the southern reach of this Arctic landscape, marking a transition from the elevated ridges of the interior to the lake-strewn coastal plain. During the mid-1950s, this area was a primary focus for resource exploration within the Naval Petroleum Reserve No 4. This effort is evidenced by a network of isolated outposts such as the Oumalik Test Well, East Oumalik Test Well, and the Wolf Creek Test Wells. The map details the reliance on seasonal transport, noting several Landing Areas (Winter) near frozen lakes like Square Lake. Landforms such as Knifeblade Ridge and Siksikpak Ridge provide a vertical contrast to the sprawling drainage systems of the Ikpikpuk River and Oumalik River. These features illustrate the early infrastructure of energy prospecting in one of the most remote regions of Alaska.