1967 Map of Lake De Smet West

About this map

Lake De Smet dominates the eastern landscape of this Johnson County region, serving as a focal point for both local recreation and agricultural engineering in the late 1960s. The map illustrates a complex network of water management, with numerous irrigation features like the Pride of the Valley Ditch, Ruby Ditch, and Lake De Smet Canal tracing the contours of the land. These systems supported the ranching and farming operations that defined the area's economy. Cultural landmarks are preserved here as well, including the Father De Smet Historical Mon near the lakeshore and the Shell Creek Sch located further inland. The western portion of the map transitions into more varied terrain characterized by the Mowry Basin and the winding paths of McDonald Creek and Shell Creek, showing the natural drainage patterns that fed the reservoir systems.