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Define Section (Rectangular Survey System) in Real Estate

Section (Rectangular Survey System): 

In the rectangular survey system used to define land ownership in the United States, a section is a specific area of land that is one square mile in size and makes up a part of a larger township. Each section is numbered and can be further subdivided into smaller plots of land.

Example: 

An example of a section would be a parcel of land that is located in a township in the western United States. The land is divided into one-mile-square sections, and each section is numbered and used for agricultural, residential, or commercial purposes.

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A few more things to keep in mind about sections:

- A section is typically further divided into smaller plots of land, usually 160 acres each. These smaller plots are often used for farming, ranching, or other agricultural purposes.

- Sections are numbered in a specific way, starting with section 1 in the northeast corner of the township and continuing west to section 36 in the southeast corner.

- The rectangular survey system was established in the late 1700s and early 1800s to help organize and define land ownership in the western United States. It is still in use today in many parts of the country.

- The rectangular survey system is also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), and it divides land into townships, which are six miles square, and sections, which are one mile square.

Understanding sections and the rectangular survey system is important for real estate professionals, especially those who work in rural areas or with large tracts of land.
Illustration of Dumb Ox mascot.

"Wit & Whimsy with the Dumb Ox: Unlocking Knowledge with Rhyme:"

A section of land, what could it be?
It's a part of a township, a mile square, you see!
Divided up into plots, it's quite grand,
Each one numbered, across the land!

The rectangular survey system, oh how neat,
Defines land ownership, with lines so sweet!
A section is a part, just one square mile,
Used for farming, homes, or stores with style!

If you're out west, you'll see them clear,
Sections of land, oh how dear!
Numbered and subdivided, just like a town,
In the rectangular survey system, they wear a crown!

So when you hear the term, don't be confused,
A section of land, is a part to be used!
One square mile in size, it's quite grand,
In the rectangular survey system, across the land!

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