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1972 Map of Timpas SW

Name: 1972 Topographic Map of Timpas SW
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1985
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1985

About this map

Water infrastructure and ranching landmarks define this stretch of the Colorado landscape along the drainage of West Dry Creek and South Dry Creek. The survey identifies an extensive network of artificial catchments and water sources essential to high-plains agriculture and livestock, including Larson Reservoir, Freddy Reservoir, and the School Section Reservoir. Named landmarks such as Dry Creek Camp and Haight Wells provide specific points of reference for local historians and genealogists tracking the development of land holdings in Otero County.

The distribution of small-scale improvements is evident in the numerous windmills and wells dotting the terrain, from Wilson Windmill in the northwest to Salt Windmill in the south. These features, along with specialized labels like May Water and Smith Reservoir, reflect the intensive management of a semi-arid environment. The mapping also notes early 1980s revisions, highlighting subtle changes in land use and water management during that decade.