2013 Map of Malaga

About this map

Malaga serves as the central hub of this Chihuahuan Desert landscape, where human settlement is defined by the critical management of water. The Pecos River snakes through the eastern portion of the quadrangle, feeding a complex network of irrigation infrastructure including the Southern Canal, Harroun Ditch, and Willow Cr Ditch. These waterways support several established agricultural outposts such as Plowman Ranch, Reed Ranch, and Cleveland Ranch, which stand in contrast to the arid drainage patterns of China Draw and Salt Draw. Near the historic Lookout Crossing, the Lookout Cem provides a point of genealogical interest for those tracing early families in the Pecos Valley. The presence of Willow Lake, Queen Lake, and Mexican Lake further illustrates the valley's reliance on both natural and engineered water sources for ranching and community survival in Eddy County.