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1949 Map of Joe Davis Hill

Name: 1949 Topographic Map of Joe Davis Hill
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1978
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1978

About this map

The Dolores River carves a deep, winding path through this western Colorado landscape, which was surveyed in conjunction with the United States Atomic Energy Commission. This partnership reflects the mid-century uranium boom that transformed the region, evidenced by numerous named claims such as the Norma Jean Mine, Sarah Ellen Mine, and Uncle Sam Mine. These mining operations are clustered near the distinct summit of Joe Davis Hill and the remote Spud Patch Camp.

The terrain transitions from the river canyon to the high plateaus of the Uncompahgre National Forest and San Juan National Forest. Water management is prominent on the higher ground, where features like Wilson Reservoir, Bell Canyon Reservoir, and Sand Rock Reservoir supported local activities. The boundary between San Miguel and Dolores counties follows the rugged geography, crossing drainages like Chico Creek and Disappointment Creek.