PLSS is an acronym that stands for Public Land Survey System. It refers to a method of surveying and subdividing land in the United States. The PLSS was originally implemented during the 19th century as a way to organize and quantify the vast and expanding territories of the young nation.
The PLSS divides the land into a grid-like structure, with each division known as a township. A township typically covers an area of 36 square miles, and is further divided into 36 sections of approximately one square mile each. These sections are often further divided into smaller parcels for easier sale and administration.
The PLSS is commonly used in legal descriptions and land records in the United States, particularly in western states where large areas of public land exist. It provides a standardized framework for identifying and describing land parcels, allowing for easier navigation and assessment of land ownership and boundaries.
The PLSS is administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in the United States, which is responsible for surveying, mapping, and maintaining the public land records. The system has also been adopted by many states for surveying private land and maintaining land records within their boundaries.
Overall, the PLSS serves as a fundamental tool for land management, identification, and transfer in the United States, providing a consistent and reliable framework for organizing and describing land parcels across the country.
