Loading map...

1971 Map of North Rattlesnake Butte

Name: 1971 Topographic Map of North Rattlesnake Butte
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1974
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1974

About this map

North Rattlesnake Butte stands as a prominent landmark in this semi-arid landscape where Huerfano, Pueblo, and Las Animas counties meet. The 1971 survey reveals a complex network of water management essential for ranching and survival in the high plains, evidenced by dozens of earthen works like Machatten Reservoir, Ronfeldt Reservoir, and Deus Lake. The topography is defined by deep incisions such as Tinaja Canyon and Peterson Canyon that cut through the land between Turkey Ridge and the prominent Hogback.

Evidence of human habitation and land use is sparse but specific, centered around locations like Chase Ranch and numerous named water sources such as Pacheco Spring and Dime Spring. The presence of a Gravel Pit and scattered wells, including West Well and Center Well, points to the modest industrial and agricultural infrastructure required to sustain local operations in this corner of Colorado during the early 1970s.