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1954 Map of Mt. Ellen 2 NE

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Mt. Ellen 2 NE
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1956
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1956

About this map

Sand Muddy Creek meanders through a landscape of severe relief along the border of Emery and Wayne Counties, as recorded in this 1954 Geological Survey. This preliminary edition highlights a region of dramatic topographic transitions, where the elevated East Wild Horse Mesa and the expansive Factory Bench overlook the intricate drainages of Horse Creek and Tank Wash. The survey identifies key survey markers of the era, such as VABM 4960 Muddy and VABM 4744 Pinto, which served as critical control points for mapping this complex terrain.

Water management in this arid environment is evidenced by the White Rock Reservoir located in the North Pinto Hills. The mapping of the Lower Blue Hills demonstrates the era's reliance on multiplex methods and aerial photography to resolve the area's labyrinthine contours. This document captures the wilderness character of central Utah before modern development or advanced infrastructure altered the traditional access routes through these hills and mesas.