What is meant by 'range' in land measurement?

In land measurement, 'range' refers to the area of land that lies between two consecutive meridian lines in the rectangular survey system, also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS). Each meridian is an imaginary vertical line that runs north-south, and these are designated at specific intervals. The land is divided into ranges, which are numbered east or west of a principal meridian.

This concept is crucial when determining property boundaries and conducting land assessments because it provides a systematic way to locate and describe parcels of land. By identifying not only the range but also the township (the horizontal division), surveyors and landowners can accurately pinpoint locations and understand the layout of land in relation to the surrounding areas.

Understanding the significance of range helps in land management, zoning, and real estate transactions in Michigan and elsewhere, as it provides a clear framework for land division and ownership rights.