Section (of Land): A Unit within the Government Rectangular Survey System

A comprehensive overview of 'Section (of Land)', its definition, historical context, and application within the Government Rectangular Survey System.

A Section (of Land) is a standard unit of measurement used predominantly within the Government Rectangular Survey System (also known as the Public Land Survey System, PLSS). Each section represents a square mile of land, equating to 640 acres. This system partitions land into a grid structure, a foundational method for land division and management in the United States.

Definition and Description

A Section (of Land) is defined as one square mile within the broader Government Rectangular Survey System framework. This system organizes land into townships, which are square systems measuring six miles by six miles (36 square miles in total). Each township is subsequently divided into 36 sections, with each section representing one square mile.

Mathematically, it can be expressed as:

$$ \text{Area of a Section} = 1 \text{ mile}^2 = 640 \text{ acres} $$

Types of Sections

• Standard Section: A full section that is exactly one square mile.
• Fractional Section: Sections that exist on the borders of townships or near irregular bodies of water and may deviate from the standard size.

Historical Context

The Government Rectangular Survey System originated from the Land Ordinance of 1785, which established a method for uniformly and accurately dividing and selling land west of the Appalachian Mountains. The implementation of this system was crucial for orderly expansion and settlement of the United States.

Applicability

The primary purpose of the Sections in the Rectangular Survey System includes:

• Ensuring consistency in land distribution and ownership.
• Facilitating the sale and recording of land plots.
• Aiding in property taxation and management.

Comparisons

Section (of Land) vs. Acre:

• A section is a larger unit consisting of 640 acres.
• An acre is a smaller unit of area measurement, approximately 43,560 square feet.

Section (of Land) vs. Survey Township:

• A section is a subdivision of a township.
• A township is a 36-square-mile area composed of 36 sections.

Related Terms with Definitions

• Township: A territorial division of land measuring six miles square, consisting of 36 sections.
• Range: A vertical column of townships in the PLSS.
• Meridian: A north-south line used to establish ranges in land surveys.

FAQs

What is the significance of a Section (of Land) in real estate?

Sections provide a standardized and simplified method of land division, which is critical for property transactions, legal descriptions, and cadastral mapping.

How many sections are there in a township?

There are 36 sections within a standard township.

Can a section be less than one square mile?

Yes, fractional sections exist typically on the borders of townships or near irregular land forms.

References

• Federal Land Surveying Manual, Government Publishing Office.
• Bureau of Land Management: Public Land Survey System.
• “Measuring America: The Decennial Censuses from 1790 to 2000”, U.S. Census Bureau.

Summary

Understanding the concept of a Section (of Land) is fundamental in the study and application of the Government Rectangular Survey System. This system plays a crucial role in land management practices in the United States, providing a standardized unit of measurement that ensures consistency and clarity in mapping, ownership, and land use. By defining and structuring land into manageable, clearly demarcated sections, it supports efficient administration and fair distribution of land resources.