What is the function of range lines in land surveying?

Range lines play a crucial role in the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), which is a method used in the United States for surveying and dividing land. Specifically, range lines are vertical lines that run north-south and are used to define and separate townships in the grid system. Each range line is spaced six miles apart, creating a systematic way to title and designate parcels of land. By delineating the east-west locations of townships, these lines help in identifying specific plots of land, ensuring clarity and organization in land descriptions, as well as ownership and development.

This system allows for consistent referencing of land locations, which is vital for effective land management, real estate transactions, and for legal purposes connected to property. In contrast, while other options might mention natural features or boundaries, they do not directly relate to the primary function of range lines within the context of land surveying.