1968 Map of Redmesa

About this map

The Southern Ute Indian Reservation Boundary cuts through the southwestern Colorado landscape, where the La Plata River winds through the high Red Mesa. Small agrarian settlements like Redmesa and Marvel anchor the high ground, connected by rural routes such as Wheeler Dr. The land use of the late 1960s is defined by a sophisticated water management system designed to support agriculture in this arid region, featuring the Pioneer Ditch and Enterprise Ditch. Extensive resource extraction is evident across the quadrangle, with numerous Oil Wells, Gas Wells, and a specific Drill Hole marking the industry of the era. The terrain is deeply incised by drainage systems like Johnson Canyon and Government Draw, while geological landmarks such as South Cinder Butte and Cinder Bluffs stand out in the southeastern corner near the New Mexico border.