2017 Map of Skunk Lake NW

About this map

The Niobrara River winds across the northern sections of this High Plains landscape in Box Butte County, marking a stark contrast to the surrounding section lines and irrigation networks. While the river follows a natural, meandering path, the northern border of the map is defined by a sophisticated system of agricultural water management, including the Sturgeon Lateral, Peters Lateral, and Sturgeon Drain. These features speak to the long-standing reliance on water diversion to support ranching and farming in this arid region of western Nebraska.