Montana Township and Range Definition: A Guide to Understanding American Land Surveying

The Public Land Survey System (PLSS) is a complex system that has been used in the United States since the early days of European settlement. At its core is the concept of the township, range, and section, which are used to divide land into manageable parcels for ownership and use. In this article, we will delve into the definition of Montana township and range, as well as how these concepts fit into the broader PLSS system.

To understand the Montana township and range, it is first necessary to know that a quarter-section is an area of 40 acres (16 hectares), which is one-quarter of a full section. A full section is 160 acres (65 hectares) in size, and this is the basic unit of land measurement under the PLSS. The process of dividing a township into smaller sections begins with the division of a quarter-section into four smaller squares, each known as a quarter-quarter section.

A township is an area that is nominally one square mile (2.6 square kilometers) in size and contains 36 sections. These sections are arranged on a grid pattern, with each section being divided into quarters, and then further subdivided into quarter-quarters. This process of repeated halving and quartering allows for the creation of smaller and more specific parcels of land.

The legal description of a tract of land under the PLSS includes information such as the state, county, township number, range number, section number, and portion of a section. This information is used to identify a specific parcel of land and to determine its location within the larger grid system.

In Montana, the township and range system is used to divide the state into manageable parcels for ownership and use. The system has been in place since the early days of European settlement, and it has played an important role in shaping the development of the state. Today, understanding the Montana township and range definition is essential for anyone looking to purchase or sell land in the state.

In conclusion, the Montana township and range definition is a critical concept in American land surveying. By understanding how the PLSS system works, including the definitions of townships, ranges, and sections, individuals can better navigate the complex process of buying, selling, and owning property in Montana and other states that use this system.