2017 Map of San Lucas Dam

About this map

The high desert terrain of the Cibola National Forest dominates this landscape, defined by a complex network of canyons and mesas in McKinley County. Significant topographic landmarks like San Mateo Mesa and Jesus Mesa rise above the drainage systems, while narrow passages such as La Polvadera Canyon and San Lucas Canyon carve through the earth. The presence of San Lucas Dam at the confluence of several seasonal drainages highlights the critical nature of water management in this arid region, supported by numerous localized catchments such as Jose Gabriel Tank, Michael Tank, and Baca Tank. Named points like Rancho Perfecto Point and Rincon de la Gorda suggest a history of ranching and land use that relied on these scattered water sources and the shelter provided by the mesas.