Definition
The Government Rectangular Survey, also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), is a standardized method of surveying and dividing land into rectangular parcels. The system was established by the Land Ordinance of 1785 to facilitate the sale and distribution of land in the western United States. It operates by dividing land into large areas called quadrangles, which are further subdivided into townships and sections.
Key Components
- Meridian: A north-south line used as a reference in the survey process.
- Base Line: An east-west line that serves as a reference.
- Quadrangles: Large tracts of land measuring 24 miles square.
- Townships: Smaller tracts within quadrangles, each measuring 6 miles on each side (36 square miles).
- Sections: Subdivisions within townships, each 1 mile square (640 acres).
How It Works
- Meridians and Base Lines: The initial point for the survey involves choosing a meridian intersected by a base line. From this starting point, the land is divided into 24-square-mile quadrangles.
- Townships: Each quadrangle is divided into 16 townships.
- Sections: Each township is divided into 36 sections, each one mile square.
Uses
The PLSS is primarily used in the majority of states west of the Ohio River and in some southern states. It aids in the systematic sale and distribution of public land.
Examples
- Arizona: The land within the state is mapped using the Government Rectangular Survey, breaking down large tracts into smaller, manageable pieces.
- Nebraska: Land parcels are consistently surveyed and mapped out using meridians and base lines to form townships and sections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are meridians and base lines?
Meridians are north-south lines that serve as key reference points in the survey process. Base lines are east-west lines that intersect meridians and provide another axis for surveying land.
How large is a township?
A township measures 6 miles on each side, encompassing an area of 36 square miles.
What is the size of a section within a township?
A section is 1 mile square, which is equivalent to 640 acres.
Why was the Government Rectangular Survey system created?
The system was established to provide a uniform method for surveying and distributing land in the western United States, facilitating land transactions and development.
Which states predominantly use the Government Rectangular Survey?
Most states west of the Ohio River, including states such as Arizona, Wyoming, and North Dakota.
Related Terms
Quadrangle
An area commonly 24 miles square, making up the larger divisions in the Government Rectangular Survey.
Township
A subdivision of a quadrangle, each township is 6 miles square and consists of 36 sections.
Section
A subdivision of a township, typically 1 mile square or 640 acres.
Meridian
A north-south reference line used in the survey system.
Base Line
An east-west reference line that intersects with meridians.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “A Primer on Public Land Survey System (PLSS)” by John C. Hays
- “The Rectangular Survey System: Lessons from History” by Robert M. Wilson
- “Land Survey Systems of the Past” by Sandra Longley
Fundamentals of Government Rectangular Survey: Land Surveying Basics Quiz
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