2019 Map of Ruthton

About this map

Coteau des Prairies, the expansive plateau rising above the surrounding plains, dictates the hydrology and geography of this southwestern Minnesota landscape. The area is defined by a complex network of wetlands and drainage features, including Judicial Ditch Number Thirteen, County Ditch Number Sixteen, and County Ditch Number Twentyone, which channel water toward the Redwood River. The town of Ruthton serves as a primary hub, situated near the intersection of Railroad Ave and Main St, while the smaller settlement of Florence sits to the northeast. Local history and genealogy are anchored by several established burial grounds, notably Opdal Cem, Ruthton Cem, and Peace Cem. The map reveals a transition in land use, from the permanent waters of East Twin Lake and West Twin Lake to the now-dry Ivadelle Lakebed, reflecting the evolving agricultural management of the region's prairie potholes.