Mesa Verde and the Chace

Geography of the Southwest

• Region: Southwest
• Key locations: Durango, Cortez
• Climate: Very dry

Innovations in Water Storage

• Development of techniques to conserve and store water
• Specific methods:
  • Dang: A method of harnessing water
  • Rainwater collection systems

Construction Techniques

• Lack of trees in the region influenced building materials
• Homes constructed using rock, examples include:
  • Chaco: Built from large stones
  • Mesa Verde: Cliff dwellings, integrated with the natural landscape