1970 Map of Ranger Lake

About this map

Ranger Lake and its surrounding high plains in Lea County are defined by a network of windmills and petroleum infrastructure as they appeared in the early 1970s. This land, primarily used for ranching, relies on groundwater sources marked by numerous family and locational landmarks such as Mixon Windmill, Bull Windmill, and the West Windmill. The presence of several Oil Wells and a Radio Tower indicate the diversification of the local economy into energy and telecommunications during this era. A significant Spring and the Ranger Lake Windmill highlight the critical importance of water management in this arid environment, while the scattered Drill Hole locations and a Gravel Pit suggest active resource exploration and road-building efforts across the county's townships.