In the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), what is the name of the row of townships running North to South?

In the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), the row of townships that runs North to South is referred to as a "Range." Each range is identified by its distance from a designated Principal Meridian and is typically numbered east or west of that meridian. This system of measurement divides land into townships, which are further subdivided into sections.

Understanding this terminology is crucial for navigating and interpreting land surveys, as it lays the groundwork for how land is categorized and referenced. This systematic approach not only enhances clarity in property descriptions but also helps in legal and real estate matters. The other terms, such as sections and townships, refer to subdivisions or units of measurement in the PLSS but do not specifically denote the North to South alignment, which is unique to ranges. Benchmarks, on the other hand, are fixed reference points used in surveying but are not part of the PLSS structure.