2017 Map of Zempel Lake

About this map

Big Porcupine Cr meanders through this section of Rosebud County, Montana, defining a landscape dominated by complex drainage systems and semi-arid terrain. This 2017 survey reveals the intricate network of coulees that channel seasonal runoff toward the creek, including Badland Coulee to the north and the prominently marked Nelson Coulee near the center. To the south, Zempel Lake sits as a primary water feature in an area otherwise characterized by high-elevation divides and deep-cut draws like Sun Coulee. Settlement is sparse and largely organized around early ranching corridors, evidenced by labels such as Ferguson Ranch Ln and Kerns Rd. The map provides a look at the modern land use within Townships 9 and 10 North, Range 37 East, showing how the natural topography of McGraw Coulee and the forks of E Blacktail Cr and W Blacktail Cr continue to shape local movement and boundary lines.