1973 Map of Snyder Lake

About this map

Snyder Lake and the surrounding high plains of Union County are captured here in the early 1970s, revealing a landscape defined by seasonal watercourses and volcanic geology. The presence of Cinder Mtn and an associated Strip Mine in the northern portion of the quadrangle points to the region's industrial and geological character. This terrain is carved by several drainages, including the meandering paths of Gallegos Creek, Perico Creek, and Carrizo Creek, which provide vital riparian corridors in this semi-arid environment. Scattered indicators of human activity, such as a Gravel Pit and a remote Spring, suggest a territory utilized for ranching and resource extraction. The map illustrates how local topography and water availability dictated the placement of roads and property boundaries across this section of northeastern New Mexico.