What is the primary function of range lines in land surveying?

The primary function of range lines in land surveying is to run parallel to the principal meridian every 6 miles. This method is part of the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), which was established to facilitate the systematic survey and division of land in the United States. Range lines, along with township lines, help create a grid layout that organizes land into townships and sections, making it easier to identify and describe parcels of land. This systematic approach is essential for accurate land measurements, ownership, and development planning.

While range lines do contribute to dividing land into sections and establishing a grid pattern, their specific and primary role is to maintain the uniformity and references of these surveys relative to the principal meridian.