1985 Map of Mesa Gallina

About this map

Sierra Lucero dominates the high-desert landscape of this mid-1980s New Mexico survey, marking a stark geological transition across the Cibola Co Valencia Co boundary. The area is defined by a series of prominent plateaus, including Mesa Gallina and Carrizo Mesa, which overlook a network of seasonal watercourses such as Arroyo Lucero and Arroyo Salado. This topography reveals the essential role of water management in an arid environment, where isolated landmarks like North Tank, Red Tanks, and Casey Tank serve as critical points of human and livestock infrastructure. Settlement is sparse, with Kings Rest representing a singular named location amidst the broader natural features of Los Valles and Mesa Aparejo. To the south, the terrain levels into the Salt Flats, illustrating the diverse geological character of this western New Mexico territory as it was documented in the final decades of the twentieth century.