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1973 Map of Mescalero Point NE

Name: 1973 Topographic Map of Mescalero Point NE
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1976
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1976

About this map

Mescalero Ridge and the dramatic escarpment of The Caprock dominate this high plains landscape on the border of Chaves and Lea counties. Surveyed in the early 1970s, the map reveals a remote industrial and ranching environment defined by a network of Jeep Trails and a prominent Pipeline cutting across the arid terrain. Natural drainage features like Polecat Canyon contrast with man-made water sources such as Cottonwood Tank and Pecan Tank, which were essential for sustaining life and livestock in this portion of the Llano Estacado.

Energy exploration is evident through numerous Drill Holes scattered across the quadrangle, while a Gravel Pit and a Radio Tower indicate the infrastructure supporting local development. Travelers along the highway could find a brief respite at the Roadside Park located just north of the sharp rise of the ridge. This survey documents the intersection of geology and industry in a stark New Mexican environment before later modern developments.