Range
In the PLSS, a column of townships running north-south, numbered east or west from a principal meridian.
Detailed Definition
In the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), a range is a column of townships running north-south, identified by its number east or west from a principal meridian. Ranges are one of the three fundamental components of PLSS land descriptions.
How ranges work: - Ranges are numbered sequentially east and west from a principal meridian - Range 1 East (R1E) is the first column east of the principal meridian - Range 1 West (R1W) is the first column west of the principal meridian - Each range is approximately 6 miles wide
Range notation: - "R5E" means Range 5 East of the applicable principal meridian - "R12W" means Range 12 West of the applicable principal meridian - The principal meridian must be specified for a complete description
Relationship to other PLSS elements: - Range (column) combined with Township (row) identifies a specific 6-by-6-mile area - Each township-range block contains 36 sections - Example: "T3N, R5W" identifies Township 3 North, Range 5 West
Irregular ranges: Due to the convergence of meridians toward the poles, range lines converge as they extend north. Correction lines (standard parallels) are established at regular intervals to reset the range widths, resulting in slight offsets at correction lines.
Ranges are essential to understanding PLSS land descriptions used in mining claims, mineral leases, and all land transactions on public lands.
Related Terms
PLSS
The Public Land Survey System, a method of subdividing and describing land in the United States using townships, ranges, and sections.
Township, Range, and Section
The hierarchical land description system within PLSS, identifying land by its position relative to principal meridians and base lines.
Principal Meridian
A north-south reference line running through an initial point, from which ranges are numbered east and west.
Township
In the PLSS, a row of sections running east-west, numbered north or south from a baseline, forming a 6-mile by 6-mile area containing 36 sections.
Section
A one-square-mile (640-acre) unit of land within a PLSS township, numbered 1-36 in a serpentine pattern.