2011 Map of Nilan Reservoir

About this map

Nilan Reservoir and its surrounding water management infrastructure dominate this portion of Lewis and Clark County. This modern survey highlights a complex network of dams and controlled water bodies, including Nilan Reservoir, Anderson Lake, and Smith Lake. The engineering influence of the J B Long and Company Number 3 Dam and J B Long and Company Number 2 Dam reveals the importance of water storage in this high-plains landscape. Moving south from the reservoir, the terrain transitions into more pronounced relief near Haystack Butte and the winding course of Swallow Canyon. Several rural routes, such as Smith Creek Rd and Goss Creek Rd, provide access to the L F Ranch and the various tributaries of Willow Creek and Smith Creek, illustrating the remote ranching and irrigation patterns of the early 21st century.