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1989 Map of Silver Bell East

Name: 1989 Topographic Map of Silver Bell East
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1989
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1989

About this map

Silver Bell (Site) sits at the base of the Silver Bell Mountains, where the landscape reveals a clear transition from natural desert peaks to an active industrial landscape. The map shows the extensive footprint of resource extraction in this corner of Pima County, with the Oxide Pit and various Prospect markings, Adit locations, and Mine Shafts scattered across the southern terrain. Below Portland Ridge, the presence of Tailings and Sewage Disposal Ponds indicates the infrastructure required to support the mining operations that defined this area’s economic character during the late twentieth century.

Away from the industrial activity, the topography is dominated by the Samaniego Hills and prominent peaks like Ragged Top and Wolcott Peak. Local transportation is limited to 4wd tracks and unimproved roads, while the El Tiro Gliderport provides a notable aviation landmark in the flatter desert expanse to the east. Water features are sparse, consisting mostly of the seasonal drainage of Cocio Wash and artificial additions like a Check Dam and scattered wells.