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1963 Map of Laguna Gatuna

Name: 1963 Topographic Map of Laguna Gatuna
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1965
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1965

About this map

Mescalero Ridge, also known as The Caprock, dominates this high-plains landscape, creating a distinct escarpment that separates the Querecho Plains from the eastern plateaus. The 1963 survey captures an era of intensive subterranean resource extraction across the New Mexico desert, marked by a dense network of a pipeline and an aqueduct serving numerous petroleum developments. Notable centers of industry include the Corbin Oil Field, EK Oil Field, and the Teas Oil Field, alongside specialized infrastructure like a Refinery and various Quarry sites.

Scattered throughout the arid terrain are signs of early ranching life and military presence. Established family holdings such as Smith Ranch, Bingham Ranch, and Campbell Ranch are documented alongside the Hobbs Air Force Base Auxiliary Field No 4. The map also details several significant alkaline depressions or dry lake beds, including Laguna Gatuna, Laguna Tonto, and Laguna Plata, providing a window into the hydrology of the Llano Estacado during the mid-20th century.