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2021 Map of Opal

Name: 2021 Topographic Map of Opal
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2021
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2021

About this map

Hams Fork meanders through the heart of this high-desert landscape, defining the water-driven development of this corner of Lincoln County. The small settlement of Opal serves as the focal point, oriented along a network of streets including Solliday St and N Front St near the local Po. The map illustrates the sophisticated irrigation infrastructure essential for livestock and agriculture in the arid West, featuring systems like the Roberson Ditch, Kidman Well Canal, and S Side Ditch which draw from the primary river valley.

Rising above the riverbed, the topography levels out at the Opal Bench and the expansive Craven Creek Meadows. These landforms, along with drainages like Craven Cr and Cow Hollow Cr, suggest a landscape historically shaped by ranching interests. The presence of Opal Springs and the convergence of transportation routes like Old Hwy 30 and the Opal Cutoff highlight the area’s role as a regional transit and water hub.