2017 Map of Lovelace Mesa

About this map

Lovelace Mesa and Chupadera Mesa dominate this high-desert landscape in Socorro County, where water management is the primary marker of human activity. The map reveals a sophisticated network of catchments and livestock watering points, with numerous named features such as South Tank, Harvey Tank, and Powder River Tank distributed across the terrain. These tanks, along with the Line Tanks and Scotts Tanks, indicate a long-standing ranching economy dependent on capturing seasonal runoff. The topography is defined by significant drainage systems, notably School Section Draw and the complex branching of Lobo Canyon, which includes Upper Ranch Canyon and the North Fork Lobo Canyon. This survey captures the region just as Co RD a012 provides the primary vehicular access through the canyons, connecting remote grazing lands and water sources like Aguila Tank.