1968 Map of Redmesa

About this map

Red Mesa dominates the northern landscape of this survey, which straddles the Colorado and New Mexico border. The settlement patterns around Redmesa and Marvel reveal a high-desert agricultural community deeply tied to water management, as evidenced by the Enterprise Ditch and Pioneer Ditch systems drawing from the La Plata River. South of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation Boundary, the terrain shifts into a series of deep canyons and washes, including Morgan Canyon, Johnson Canyon, and Mefford Wash. The map documents a rugged geography where ranching and early energy exploration coincide, shown by various drill holes and the presence of a central Landing Area. To the southeast, the distinct volcanic features of Cinder Bluffs and South Cinder Butte provide prominent landmarks in the high plateau country.