1968 Map of Vernon SW

About this map

The Arikaree River flows through this corner of the High Plains, carving a distinct valley through the arid terrain of eastern Colorado. During the late 1960s, this landscape was defined by isolated homesteads and cattle operations such as Dunning Ranch and Wingfield Ranch. The drainage network, including Copperkettle Creek and Hay Gulch, reveals the seasonal water patterns essential for ranching in Yuma County. Evidence of small-scale land use appears at the Bowman Ranch and a local Gravel Pit. The map captures the region as it was surveyed for the Department of the Interior’s program for the development of the Missouri River Basin, documenting a sparse but resilient network of tracks and fence lines connecting the various ranch holdings.