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1968 Map of Pierce Canyon

Name: 1968 Topographic Map of Pierce Canyon
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1971
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1971

About this map

The Pecos River loops sharply through this arid landscape of the Permian Basin, defining a region where water management and industrial extraction intersect. The winding river corridor is marked by the Malaga Bend and the Harroun Canal, reflecting an era of irrigation and ranching alongside emerging oil exploration. Steep-walled drainages like Pierce Canyon and Cedar Canyon cut across the limestone terrain, creating a complex topography of draws and mesas.

Water infrastructure is prominent, from the Livingston Canal to scattered landmarks like the Carper Windmill and Tomcat Windmill. These features, alongside numerous mapped drill holes and oil wells, illustrate the transition of the Eddy County desert into a productive energy and agricultural zone. Historically significant points like the Pierce Canyon Crossing provide evidence of early routes through this challenging environment, while a remote Landing Strip suggests the logistical demands of mid-century industrial operations.