2010 Map of Lapis Point

About this map

Lapis Valley and the surrounding high-desert terrain of Rio Arriba County are defined by a network of expansive plateaus and drainage systems. This 2010 USGS survey shows a landscape managed for ranching and resource use, centered around the topographical prominence of Lapis Point and the vast Wild Horse Mesa. The presence of Las Norias Windmill and named enclosures like Apache Buil Pasture indicate the ongoing importance of water management in this arid region, where seasonal flows like Tapicito Creek and the deep cuts of Las Norias Canyon shape the movement of people and livestock. Away from major population centers, the map documents small landmarks such as Eagles Nest, providing a record of the specific local nomenclature used by those working the land atop B S Mesa.