What defines the boundaries of a township?

The boundaries of a township are defined by township lines and range lines. Township lines run east and west, dividing the land into horizontal sections, while range lines run north and south, dividing the land into vertical sections. When combined, these lines create a grid system that establishes the framework for townships within the rectangular survey system used in the United States.

Township lines are specifically the lines that delineate the layers of townships, while range lines designate the divisions within that framework. This systematic approach allows for a clear and organized way of surveying and mapping land, facilitating property ownership and development.

Understanding this system is crucial for anyone involved in real estate or land use, as it affects how land is bought, sold, and regulated. The other options either mix concepts or do not accurately represent the defining lines of a township. For example, while principal meridians and baselines are foundational to the survey system, they do not directly outline a township's boundaries.