2011 Map of Locust Butte

About this map

Wagontire and the surrounding high desert terrain define this portion of Harney County, illustrating a landscape where transportation routes and water sources are the primary markers of human presence. The small settlement is supported by the Wagontire Airport and a network of arterial desert roads, including the Old Burns Hwy and Christmas Valley Wagontire Rd. The geography is characterized by wide basins and intermittent water features, such as Alkali Valley and the Locust Butte Reservoir. These sites, along with smaller catchments like Wolter Lake and the Shroder Waterhole, highlight the importance of water management in an area dominated by open range and ranching heritage. Sparse settlements like Butte Valley are connected by lengthy gravel and improved roads, reflecting the vast distances typical of the Oregon outback during the early 21st century.