Loading map...

2011 Map of Velarde

Name: 2011 Topographic Map of Velarde
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2011
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2011

About this map

The Rio Grande carves through the landscape of Rio Arriba County, anchoring a series of riverside settlements and agricultural infrastructure. In this 2011 survey, the Embudo Historic District preserves the architectural and cultural footprint of the canyon, while the intricate network of the La Plaza Ditch, Chicas Ditch, and Canova Ditch illustrates the long-standing reliance on traditional acequia irrigation systems. These waterways connect communities like Velarde, Dixon, and Rinconada, which are situated along the valley floor beneath the high elevations of Mesa de la Cejita.

Local history is deeply rooted in the land, marked by landmarks such as the El Santuario church and the Sebastian-Martin Pit. The geography is defined by numerous drainage systems, including Cañada de la Entranas and Embudo Creek, which feed into the main river artery. This map details the transition from the high mesa tops to the fertile riverbanks where post offices and cemeteries serve as the core of these northern New Mexico villages.