1982 Map of Tank Mountain

About this map

Tank Mountain and the adjacent Little Tank Mountain define the high ground of this southwestern New Mexico landscape, which was documented in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The region is characterized by a network of drainage systems including Animas Creek, Big Creek, and the South Fork, which carve through the arid terrain. The presence of water infrastructure such as XT Tank and Santa Rita Tank points to the area's utility for livestock and ranching, where reliable water sources were essential for survival. Named landmarks like Red Hill and Cabin Canyon provide fixed points for navigation across the open range. This document captures the hydrologic and topographic detail of Hidalgo County before more modern developments, showcasing a landscape where natural features and essential water tanks dictated the movement of people and animals.