1955 Map of Imperial Reservoir

About this map

The Colorado River defines this landscape along the border of Arizona and California, where mid-century water management efforts are clearly visible. The massive Imperial Reservoir and Imperial Dam Spillway serve as the focal point for irrigation, feeding the Gila Main Canal and utilizing large Desilting Basins to manage the river's heavy sediment load. This survey captures the transition from pioneer-era river landings to modern military and conservation uses. For example, while the Castle Dome Landing (Site) is marked as a historic location, active development appears at Fishers Landing and the Yuma Test Station. Further inland, the Chocolate Mountains rise to the west, where the Old Senator Mine and Senator Wash indicate the area's prospecting history within the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge.