2020 Map of South Mountain

About this map

South Mtn anchors this high-desert landscape in Malheur County, where water management is the primary driver of human geography. The map documents a sophisticated network of upland water storage including South Mountain Reservoir, Alfred Reservoir, and Hog Cr Reservoir Number Two, which serve the arid range land. To the south, the Malheur River cuts through the terrain, joined by seasonal drainages like Simmons Gulch and Miller Cr. The prevalence of named springs, such as Coyote Spring, Perry Spring, and the two Boney Spring locations, illustrates the critical importance of reliable water sources for local ranching and land use in this part of eastern Oregon. Access is maintained through remote routes like Shelley Rd and Antelope Spring Rd, which traverse the high ridges and deep canyons.