Exploring the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) Townships

What is the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) and how are townships organized within it?

In the PLSS, how are townships identified and what do the township numbers indicate?

Answer:

In the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), townships are organized in a grid pattern based on range (east-west) and township (north-south) lines. The township numbering system starts from the base line, typically the south boundary of a state, and the principal meridian, which is a north-south reference line. Each township is identified using a unique combination of numbers to denote its position south or north of the base line and east or west of the principal meridian.

For example, the designation "t2s, r4e" refers to the second township south of the base line and the fourth range east of the principal meridian. The letter "t" indicates the township direction (south or north), followed by the number specifying how many townships away from the base line or principal meridian it is located. The letter "r" is used to denote the range direction (east or west), followed by the number indicating the distance from the principal meridian.

Therefore, if you move one township directly south from a given township like "t2s, r4e," you would arrive at "t3s, r4e." This means that by simply incrementing the township number by one in the south direction, you can accurately determine the township due south of the original location within the PLSS grid.

The PLSS system provides a systematic way to demarcate and define land parcels, making it easier to identify and locate specific areas within the surveyed regions. Understanding how townships are organized and numbered is crucial for land surveyors, developers, and anyone involved in real estate transactions within PLSS territories.