2020 Map of Shade Creek

About this map

Christianson Reservoir and the drainage of Shade Cr define this section of the high plains in McCone County. The landscape is characterized by a network of seasonal watercourses and deep-cut features like Williams Coulée, which suggest the challenges of ranching and navigation in this arid environment. Transportation is limited to a few established routes, primarily Shade Creek Rd and Prairie Elk Rd, which follow the natural contours of the land rather than a strict grid. The map details the complex system of coulees and creeks, including S Fork Shade Cr and Ruff Cr, that feed into the larger regional watershed. This 2020 survey documents the modern layout of the Public Land Survey System through T24N R45E and adjacent townships, marking out the vast, open acreage typical of eastern Montana’s ranching country.