1972 Map of La Silla

About this map

Mesa Variadero and the surrounding high plains of San Miguel County dominate this early 1970s landscape, where drainage patterns define the geography of the high desert. The prominent landform of La Silla stands as a landmark above the meandering course of Garita Creek, which cuts through the central portion of the quadrangle. This era shows a sparsely settled ranching territory, indicated by the occasional Well and Spring that served as vital water sources for livestock in an arid environment. To the south, the terrain rises significantly toward North Mesa and West Mesa, separated by the drainage of Little Cuervo Creek. These mesas and their steep escarpments illustrate the geological transition between the flatlands and the higher plateau regions of eastern New Mexico, providing a clear view of the hydrological network including Pino Creek.