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1972 Map of Sierra De La Cruz

Name: 1972 Topographic Map of Sierra De La Cruz
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1975
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1975

About this map

Sevilleta dominates the central landscape of this Socorro County survey, revealing a network of remote ranching outposts and water sources. Named landmarks like Sierra de la Cruz and Black Mesa provide topographic structure to a terrain defined by deep drainage systems including Cibola Canyon and Palo Duro Canyon. The map records a distinct human footprint through numerous isolated wells and tanks, reflecting the vital infrastructure required for livestock in this arid environment.

Watering points such as Tomas Baca Well, Stapleton Well, and Bustos Well are scattered throughout the quadrangle, often accompanied by complex fence lines and unimproved trails. These features, alongside small settlements like Milagro and La Caida, illustrate the mid-20th-century ranching culture of central New Mexico. In addition to the pastoral development, the presence of various Prospect sites and a Radio Tower indicates a mix of mineral exploration and modern telecommunications infrastructure during the early 1970s.