1967 Map of Jacobs Reservoir

About this map

Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge dominates this high-desert landscape in Lake County, characterized by a complex network of seasonal lakes and alkali flats. The 1967 field data reveals a rugged terrain where water is the primary geographic driver, centered on the Jacobs Reservoir and its drainage through Guano Creek. The map documents a sparsely inhabited region where infrastructure is limited to a network of Jeep Trails, suggesting a landscape dedicated to wildlife conservation and remote ranching operations. Notable landmarks like Cat Butte and the broad Clover Swale provide navigational anchors amidst numerous smaller water bodies, including Fortyfour Lake and School Section Lake. This survey illustrates the delicate balance of the Great Basin ecosystem, recording the specific elevations and locations of vital water sources such as Thunderbird Lake and Wool Lake before modern environmental shifts.