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1962 Map of Merced Falls

Name: 1962 Topographic Map of Merced Falls
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1978
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1978

About this map

Industrial and hydraulic engineering define the landscape along the Merced River in this mid-century survey. The settlement at Merced Falls serves as a focal point for water management, featuring the Merced Falls Diversion Dam, a powerhouse, and a substation. Extensive Dredge Tailings along the river banks below the falls reveal the intensive gold dredging history of the region.

Upland from the river, the terrain is marked by numerous mineral prospects and family-named landmarks like Table Top Mtn and Bullion Hill. Water infrastructure is prominent, from the massive Lake Mc Clure (Exchequer Reservoir) with its Temperance Arm and Cotton Arm to the Mc Swain Dam. Remote outposts such as Webb Station and the Akoz Mine illustrate the scattered nature of early Mariposa County industry and ranching.