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1966 Map of Mule Dam

Name: 1966 Topographic Map of Mule Dam
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1978
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1978

About this map

The high plateau of Sisnathyel Mesa dominates this 1960s landscape, illustrating the intricate water-management systems required for ranching and survival in Sandoval County. The survey identifies a network of engineered livestock tanks and catchments, including Mule Dam, Chimney Dam, and the Big Island CCC Tank, the latter reflecting earlier federal conservation work in the region. The Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation Boundary runs along the eastern portion of the sheet, marking a significant jurisdictional division across the high desert terrain.

Surface water patterns are traced through drainage features like Ca ada Alamos and Encino Wash, while the geological spine of the Continental Divide winds through the southeastern quadrant. Historical infrastructure is further evidenced by various remote outposts such as Herrera Well and White Point Well, connected by primitive transit routes labeled simply as Jeep Trail. These elements collectively document the mid-century land use of this arid territory, where every well and earthen dam was a vital landmark.