Understanding Township: The Core of Government Rectangular Survey System
A township is a critical concept within the government rectangular survey system, often used in various parts of the United States for land division. This methodical approach helps in accurately defining and mapping large parcels of land.
What is a Township?
A township is typically identified as a 6-mile by 6-mile square tract, encompassing 36 square miles in total. These townships are further subdivided into 36 smaller square sections, each measuring 1 mile by 1 mile.
Purpose and Function
Townships serve several important functions:
- Organized Land Distribution: Townships allow for systematic land distribution and ownership identification.
- Simplified Land Mapping: By breaking down large tracts into smaller, manageable units, mapping and navigating the land become simpler and more efficient.
- Ease of Conflict Resolution: Clearly defined boundaries help minimize disputes over land ownership and use.
Example: Practical Application
Imagine a large 36-square-mile region, which can be broken down into 16 townships to organize and manage land effectively. See Figure 190.
Figure 190
+---------------------------------+
| Township |
| (1) |
| +-------------+ |
| 6 | | |
| | 6mi x 6mi| |
+--------+-------------+----------+
| 6mi 6mi |
+---------------------------------+
In essence, each township can be subdivided for various purposes, such as agricultural, residential, or commercial use.
FAQs
Q: How are townships further subdivided?
A: Each township contains 36 1-mile square sections, making it easier to locate specific parcels of land.
Q: Why is the 6-mile measurement standard used?
A: It’s a decade-old convention established during the colonial period to ensure uniformity and efficiency across large tracts of land.
Q: Can townships vary in size?
A: While townships are generally 6 miles by 6 miles, slight variations can occur due to natural land features and survey errors.
Understanding townships and their role within the government rectangular survey system is essential for navigating land ownership and managing properties effectively.
Related Terms: section, range, meridian, base line.
