Base Line and Meridian
Base lines and meridians are imaginary lines used in the Rectangular Survey System to locate and describe land in most mainland states.
What Are Base Line and Meridian?
In land surveying, the base line is a horizontal east-west line, and the meridian is a vertical north-south line. Together, they form a grid system to describe land parcels under the Rectangular Survey Method, also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS).
Understanding base lines and meridians is essential for homeowners, developers, and landowners navigating property descriptions in legal or real estate documents.
How Do Base Line and Meridian Work?
- Intersection Point: The base line and meridian intersect at an initial point, forming the basis of the land grid system.
- Townships and Ranges: Land is divided into squares called townships and ranges, which are further subdivided into sections for precise identification.
- Usage: This system is commonly used in property deeds and legal descriptions to define land boundaries.
Benefits of Understanding Base Line and Meridian
- Clear Land Descriptions: Provides a standardized method for describing land parcels.
- Legal Clarity: Ensures property boundaries are defined accurately in legal documents.
- Simplifies Transactions: Facilitates property sales, transfers, and land development.
Example of Base Line and Meridian in Action
A surveyor uses the base line and principal meridian of the region to describe a land parcel as "Township 2 North, Range 3 West, Section 10." This precise description ensures the property’s location is easily identifiable in legal documents.
Pros and Cons of Base Line and Meridian
Pros:
- Standardizes property descriptions across regions.
- Simplifies land surveying and mapping.
- Ensures accuracy in legal and real estate transactions.
Cons:
- Requires familiarity with the system to interpret descriptions.
- May seem complex to individuals unfamiliar with surveying terminology.
- Limited to regions using the Rectangular Survey System.
Conclusion
Base lines and meridians are foundational tools in land surveying, providing a clear and accurate method for describing property. Homeowners and landowners should understand their role to navigate property transactions with confidence.
