1979 Map of Otero Mesa South

About this map

The Otero Mesa landscape dominates this high-altitude New Mexico survey, where the arid environment is defined by essential water infrastructure and military land use in the late 1970s. Significant portions of the quadrangle are occupied by the Fort Bliss Military Reservation (Mc Gregor Range), reflecting the mid-century expansion of defense training grounds in the desert southwest. The map meticulously records scattered water sources vital for both ranching and range operations, including Martin Well, Martin Tank, and the End of Line Tank. Topographical features like Martin Canyon and Meadow Hay Canyon cut through the mesa, while Mack Draw provides drainage to the south. These labels offer a detailed look at how humans managed this remote Otero County environment through fencelines and named catchments like Big Tank and Corner Tanks.