2020 Map of Santo Nino Canyon

About this map

Santo Niño Canyon and the surrounding high desert of Torrance County are defined by a complex network of drainage systems and isolated water sources. This 2020 landscape reveals the essential role of artificial catchments like Alvas Tank and Joselino Tank in an arid environment. The terrain is marked by significant elevation changes, from the heights of Lobo Hill down into the deep incisions of Carrizo Canyon and Viejo Canyon. The presence of Bigs Bee Ranch Rd and numerous county roads like Co RD c048 suggests a region primarily dedicated to large-scale ranching. Local topography is further distinguished by Cañoncito de Milpa and Red Canyon, illustrating the varied geological formations of the New Mexico interior. Water movement is seasonal and critical, traced through features such as Pintada Arroyo, Amarillo Draw, and Lobo Draw.