define township and range land survey system

Defining Township and Range Land Survey System: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to understanding property boundaries and features, the township and range land survey system is a crucial concept in the real estate industry. This system, adopted in 1785, has been used throughout the United States to outline the boundaries of tracts of land, creating a grid pattern that helps locate specific properties.

At its core, the township and range system divides the country into a series of square-mile sections, each containing 640 acres. These sections are further divided into quarters, halves, and quartered quarters, making it possible to pinpoint a specific property within a larger area. The system is based on a grid pattern, with townships running north and south, and ranges running east and west.

To identify a specific property using this system, legal descriptions typically start with a section-township-range (STR) description. This type of description provides the foundation for understanding property boundaries and features. For instance, if we look at the example provided by John Jacob in 1901, he purchased the NW/4 of Section 10, Township 10, Range 10.

This system may seem complex at first glance, but it is essential to understand the basics of township and range surveys when dealing with real estate transactions. In this series, Legals with Lippman, our Production Manager, Sydney, will explore topics such as plats (and replats), original townsites, water rights, condemnations, and how these concepts affect property transactions.

By grasping the fundamentals of the township and range land survey system, real estate professionals can simplify their work and better serve their clients. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out in the industry, understanding this critical concept is essential for navigating the complexities of real estate law.

In upcoming articles, we'll delve deeper into the world of legal descriptions, exploring topics such as the differences between platted and unplatted ground, and how to effectively use STR descriptions in property transactions. Stay tuned for more insights on this fascinating topic!

Define township and range land survey system