2011 Map of Santana Mesa

About this map

Rio Grande defines the international boundary between the United States and Mexico in this high-desert landscape. The terrain is marked by significant topographical shifts, most notably the prominent Santana Mesa which rises above the surrounding flats. Steep-walled drainages such as Canyon Colorado and Canyon Madera carve through the earth, channeling intermittent water toward the river valley. Transportation in this desolate stretch of Presidio County is limited to FM 170, which follows the contours of the river. Small, isolated water sources like Seep Spring and Trough Spring are vital landmarks in an otherwise arid environment, while Panther Creek and Arroyo Primero represent the primary natural drainage network for the northern reaches of the quadrangle.