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2014 Map of Payne Creek

Name: 2014 Topographic Map of Payne Creek
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2014
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2014

About this map

Oregon Canyon Mountains dominate this high-desert landscape in Malheur County, where a complex network of seasonal water management is evident. The drainage patterns of Payne Creek and McDermitt Cr are punctuated by numerous small-scale catchments such as Fifteenmile Reservoir, Beaver Reservoir, and Opal Reservoir. These features, along with names like Mahogany Spring and Gopher Spring, indicate the vital importance of water resources for cattle ranching in this arid corner of Oregon.

Industrial and ranching history is etched into the terrain via remote access routes and mining prospects. The map tracks Zimmerman Ranch Rd and Turner Ranch Rd across the southern reaches, providing context for local land use near McDermitt Cr Reservoir. Meanwhile, labels like Mine Crk and Hot Cr W Mine Reservoir point to historical mineral exploration within the steep corridors of Cherokee Canyon and Rattlesnake Canyon.