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MISC. PUBLICATION IS. U. S. DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE 



forest. This valley, the only extensive one on the forest, is in decided 

 contrast with the two mesas which overshadow it on both sides. 

 Two smaller valleys. Divide Creek on the north and Muddy Creek 

 on the south, indent the boundaries of the eastern portion of the 

 forest. The waters of these two creeks drain ultimately, as do all the 

 other waters of this forest, into the Colorado Hirer. 



There are over 100 lakes on the Grand Mesa, many of them old 

 craters and as yet unfathomed. The cool, invigorating weather, 

 good fishing, and attractive surroundings draw many summer visi- 

 tors from the warm lowlands near by, as well as from many distant 

 places. Frost is likely to come at night any month of the year, and 

 during the summer it is possible at midday to drive in two hours from 

 a temperature of well above 90 z F. to one of 50°. In addition to 



Fig. IS. — Cattle grazing in open timber. Grand Mesa National Forest 



visitors who come to the forest for rest and recreation, many organi- 

 zations maintain summer camps there. Public camp grounds are 

 located where they will serve the public with the least possible fire 

 hazard. Such camp grounds are often cleared of inflammable brush, 

 surrounded by a trench which a ground fire can not cross, and 

 equipped with stone fireplaces. 



For the summer homes and lodges, permits are issued and a nomi- 

 nal charge is made. The buildings and other improvements are 

 built and owned by the permittees and may be sold to new permittees 

 in the case of a transfer. Permits may be renewed annually or 

 issued for a term of 10 or 15 years. 



The waters of the Grand Mesa have other uses besides fishing and 

 camping which justify the careful protection they receive. They are 

 the main source of irrigation for the surrounding orchards and 



