How large is each township in the Rectangular Survey System?

• A. 25 Sq. Miles
• B. 36 Sq. Miles
• C. 49 Sq. Miles
• D. 60 Sq. Miles

Answer: (B)

In the Rectangular Survey System, often referred to as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), each township measures 6 miles by 6 miles. This results in a total area of 36 square miles. This system is primarily used for land description in the United States, helping to organize land into manageable parcels.

Townships play a crucial role in the survey system, delineating a grid that helps identify and locate land boundaries accurately. Each township is then divided into sections, with one township consisting of 36 sections, each of which is one square mile. This standardized way of measuring land is essential for clear conveyance and understanding of property descriptions in real estate transactions.