1956 Map of Mendota Dam

About this map

The San Joaquin River snakes along the boundary of Fresno and Madera counties, serving as the central artery for a complex mid-century irrigation network. This survey captures a landscape defined by water management and large-scale agriculture, anchored by the Mendota Dam and the expansive Mendota Pool. A web of artificial waterways, including the Chowchilla Canal, Columbia Canal, and Helm DITCH, crisscrosses the valley floor to support established agricultural holdings like the New Columbia Ranch and Pomona Ranch.