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2017 Map of Wendt Butte

Name: 2017 Topographic Map of Wendt Butte
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2017
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2017

About this map

The Burnt River flows through the northern edge of this high-altitude landscape along the border of Baker and Malheur counties. A complex system of historical water management defines the valley floor, evidenced by numerous irrigation channels including Eldorado Ditch, Clarks Cr Ditch, and Lynns Ditch. These waterways reflect the region's agricultural and mining history, where diverting water was essential for survival and industry.

Rising above the flats are prominent volcanic landmarks like Wendt Butte and Three Pine Butte, which overlook expansive plateaus such as Mahogany Flat and Schofield Flat. Evidence of early travel and land use is found in labels like Bridgeport Valley and the various gulches named for local families or landmarks, such as McPherson Gulch and Evans Gulch. The terrain is punctuated by secluded water sources like Cave Hollow Spring and Nichols Spring, which were vital for livestock and early inhabitants in this arid territory.