2023 Map of Irish Lake

About this map

The Malheur National Wildlife Refuge anchors the eastern edge of this High Desert landscape, where the Blitzen Valley meets the volcanic uplands of the Catlow Valley region. Water management is the defining characteristic of this arid terrain, evidenced by the Warm Springs Canal and a network of isolated springs and livestock-related improvements. Features like John Cabin Spring, Company Trough, and the Bailey Waterhole reflect the long history of range management and cattle ranching in Harney County. The topography is dominated by basaltic landmarks, most notably the Jack Mountain ridge and the descriptively named Hole-in the Ground Jackass Mtn. Seasonally fluctuating water bodies, including Irish Lake and Antelope Lake, provide critical habitat in an otherwise dry expanse of sagebrush and juniper bed grounds.