Trincheras and Physical Environment Along the Rio Gavilan, Chihuahua, Mexico

This study deals with aboriginal check dams, called trincheras, and the physical environment in which they are found in the eastern portion of the Sierra Madre Occidental of Chihuahua, Mexico. A temporary weather station gathered data on air temperature, soil temperature, net radiation, precipitation, relative humidity, etc., over a 56-day period, 18 June--12 August, 1964. These data are discussed and comparisons of temperatures and precipitation are made with Nuevo Casas Grandes, a permanent weather station 43 air miles to the northeast. Trincheras are described by dimensions, types, construction, and functions. The relationships between trincheras and selected terrain features are mapped and discussed. Geology, relief, soils, and vegetations of the area are included.