The eastern plains south of I-40 between Moriarty, Santa Rosa, and Fort Sumner—flat rangeland and shortgrass prairie with mesquite, yucca, cholla, and desert grasses, 4,500 to 6,500 feet. Occasional mesas and low hills break the horizon, and the Pecos River and its tributaries cut shallow to moderate canyons through the eastern portion. Lake Sumner sits in the southeastern corner. Pinon and juniper grow on steeper terrain, in draws, and on larger hills. This is speed goat country—flat, open, and wind-hammered. Land ownership is overwhelmingly private ranch land with scattered state trust and some BLM. US 60, US 54, I-40, and NM 219 provide paved access, with ranch roads crossing the unit. Fort Sumner and Santa Rosa have fuel and basic supplies. Cell service is generally available along highways. Pronghorn, mule deer, and small game—wide-open terrain where a spotting scope and patience are essential. Landowner permission is critical for accessing most areas. Wind is a constant factor on the eastern plains, the kind that makes your truck door a weapon every time you open it. Water is limited to stock tanks, windmills, and the Pecos River drainage. Eastern plains. Lake Sumner on the Pecos River. Flat to rolling shortgrass prairie. Pronghorn and mule deer country. US 60, US 54, I-40, and NM 219 provide access. Fort Sumner and Santa Rosa are the service towns. Not an elk unit. Mostly private ranch land with some state trust.