2011 Map of Phillippi Reservoir

About this map

Water management and remote aviation define this high plains landscape in Carter County during the early 21st century. The map is centered on Phillippi Reservoir, supported by a series of engineered water controls including Phillippi Number 1 Dam and Soda Creek Dam. The naming of local features like Bum Lamb Dam and Marys Lamb Dam reflects the region's enduring sheep ranching heritage, where every drainage—from North Soda Creek to Spring Creek—is vital for livestock. To the south, Gardner Airport sits near the confluence of Big Grout Creek and Boxelder Creek, serving as a critical transportation link in a territory largely traversed by unpaved routes like Old Hammond Rd. These features illustrate the practical adaptations of modern ranching in the American West.