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2017 Map of Matlock Prairie

Name: 2017 Topographic Map of Matlock Prairie
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2017
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2017

About this map

Matlock Prairie and the surrounding high-plateau grasslands define this section of the Umatilla National Forest along the border of Morrow and Umatilla counties. The landscape is characterized by a series of distinct upland openings including North Jones Prairie, Balsinger Prairie, and Round Prairie, which are connected by an intricate network of forest development roads such as the Old Western Route. To the west, Arbuckle Mountain stands as a prominent landmark overlooking several named water sources like Biscuit Spring and Happy Home Spring.

Evidence of ranching and early land use is grounded by the presence of Gilman Ranch in the southeast corner. The drainage patterns are clearly marked by the deep incision of Bear Claw Canyon to the north, while Butter Creek and Fivemile Creek carve through the central prairies. This survey details the transition between high-elevation forest and the open grazing lands that have long supported the local livestock economy.