2012 Map of Red Elm

About this map

Red Elm and its surrounding prairie landscape in Ziebach County are defined by a network of drainage creeks and small earthen dams. This central South Dakota terrain is deeply etched by Elm Cr, which flows past the settlement and the nearby Red Elm Cem, a vital site for local genealogical research. Water management is a central theme of the landscape, seen in the presence of Sandoz Dam and Sargent Dam, which support cattle ranching and agricultural life in this arid region. The drainage patterns of Knife Cr, Cottonwood Cr, and Rattlesnake Cr converge throughout the quadrangle, illustrating the natural geography that dictates the placement of ranch roads and the few established homesteads. One of the more distinct water features is the Lake of the Woods, providing a rare larger body of water amidst the winding creek beds.