“Draw” refers to a specific type of landform that is a fundamental concept in land navigation and topography. It describes a common, elongated depression in the landscape, typically found on the side of a hill or ridge. Recognizing a draw is important for understanding terrain, water flow, and animal movement patterns. This feature channels water and provides natural corridors, making it relevant to geographers, ecologists, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Topographical Definition
A draw is a shallow, natural drainage feature, less developed than a valley or canyon. It is an elongated depression that is generally V-shaped or U-shaped in cross-section, formed by the gradual erosion of water runoff. This feature is a precursor to a larger drainage system, usually etched into a hillside between two parallel ridges or spurs that extend downward from a higher point.
The sides of a draw are typically steep, creating a pronounced fall line, which is the path a ball would take if rolled down the slope. Unlike a valley, which may have a flat bottom and run parallel to a main ridge, a draw rises with the surrounding ground and is perpendicular to the ridgeline it descends from. Draws are often dry because they form from surface runoff, but they may temporarily contain an ephemeral stream after heavy rainfall or snowmelt.
Identifying a Draw on the Ground and on a Map
Identifying a draw on the ground involves looking for a low area where the terrain gently converges, forming a natural, concave slope. Visually, a person standing in a draw will observe the ground rising on the left, right, and behind them, while it drops away only in the direction of the slope. The sides of the draw funnel toward the center, often resulting in slightly different vegetation or soil moisture than the adjacent, higher ground.
On a topographical map, a draw is identified by the distinctive pattern of contour lines, which connect points of equal elevation. When crossing a draw, the contour lines form a V-shape or U-shape that consistently points toward higher elevation, or upstream. This V-shape indicates the direction from which water would flow into the depression, and the closeness of the lines indicates the steepness of the draw’s sides.
Ecological Role and Wildlife Movement
Draws function as natural funnels for water, nutrients, and air movement across a landscape. Even when dry, the depression collects and channels surface runoff, contributing to increased soil moisture that supports specific micro-habitats and plant life. This sheltered, often damper environment offers greater cover and acts as a refuge for smaller organisms.
For large terrestrial animals, the draw serves as a preferred travel corridor. Animals like deer and elk use the concealed route to move between bedding areas and feeding grounds. This movement pattern is driven by the instinct to use the path of least resistance while remaining hidden from predators, as the sloping sides provide excellent visual cover.
How Draws Differ from Gullies, Ravines, and Valleys
Draws are distinguished from other depressions primarily by size, formation, and relationship to the surrounding terrain. A gully is much smaller, shallower, and often results from sudden, severe erosion. Gullies can be easily crossed or filled in, and are sometimes formed by man-made disturbances or rapid, localized water flow, making them less permanent landscape features.
A ravine or canyon is a significantly larger and deeper feature, often characterized by steeper walls and the presence of a permanent stream or river at the bottom. These features are typically too large to be considered a minor depression on a hillside. A valley is the largest feature, a broad, low area that separates large hills or mountain ranges, and it generally runs parallel to the main ridgeline, unlike a draw.