Baseline
Definition
The term Baseline refers to a principal east-west line used in the Rectangular Survey System (also known as the Public Land Survey System). This line serves as a reference point for all north-south measurements in land descriptions. Essentially, baselines work in conjunction with meridians (north-south lines) to divide and describe pieces of land in a systematically organized manner.
Examples
- Mount Diablo Base Line: Used in California and Nevada, it serves as the principal east-west line from which townships and ranges are defined for those states.
- Fifth Principal Meridian and Baseline: Used for subdividing lands in Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, and parts of Minnesota and South Dakota.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the purpose of a baseline in land surveying?
A1: A baseline serves as a reference point for measuring north-south distances, creating a grid system that helps systematically divide and describe land.
Q2: How is a baseline different from a meridian?
A2: A baseline runs east-west and provides a reference for north-south measurements, while a meridian runs north-south and offers a reference for east-west measurements.
Q3: Can multiple baselines exist within the same state?
A3: Yes, multiple baselines can exist, especially in larger states, each serving specific survey needs and regions.
Q4: Are baselines important only in the United States?
A4: While the Rectangular Survey System is predominantly used in the United States, other countries and systems may use similar baseline concepts for their land division methods.
Q5: How does the baseline affect property descriptions?
A5: The baseline provides the foundation for legal property descriptions, helping ensure consistency and accuracy in the identification and documentation of land parcels.
- Meridian: A north-south line used in conjunction with a baseline for surveying land under the Rectangular Survey System.
- Township: A square unit of land defined by the intersection of range lines and township lines measuring six miles on each side.
- Range: A measurement referring to the east-west lines used to define townships within a given meridian.
- Section: A subdivision of a township, typically one square mile in area, used for land descriptions.
Online Resources
- U.S. Public Land Survey System - A comprehensive guide to understanding the U.S. Public Land Survey System, including the role of baselines.
- National Atlas.gov – Provides detailed maps and explanations of baselines and meridians across the United States.
References
- Bureau of Land Management. (n.d.). The Public Land Survey System. US Department of the Interior.
- White, C. Albert. (1991). A History of the Rectangular Survey System.
- Callahan, Michael. (2007). PLSS Primer: A Guide to Understanding PLSS Surveys.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- McEntyre, John G. (1978). Land Surveying General Principles and Practices.
- Hodgson, R. Derek, and Sellers, Thomas W. (2013). Real Estate Principles: Spatial Aspects of Real Estate Property.
- Brown, Curtis M. (1971). Boundary Control and Legal Principles (Fourth Edition).
Real Estate Basics: Baseline Fundamentals Quiz
### What is a baseline in land surveying?
- [x] An east-west line used as a reference for north-south measurements.
- [ ] A north-south line used for dividing land.
- [ ] The starting point for building construction.
- [ ] A line that separates different land use zones.
> **Explanation:** In land surveying, a baseline is an east-west line used as a reference for north-south distances in land descriptions.
### What system uses the concept of a baseline for land measurement?
- [ ] Metes and bounds
- [ ] Lot and block
- [ ] Vertical land method
- [x] Rectangular Survey System
> **Explanation:** The Rectangular Survey System, also known as the Public Land Survey System, employs the baseline for organizing land measurements.
### In which two orientations do baselines and meridians lie, respectively?
- [ ] Both run north-south.
- [ ] Both run east-west.
- [ ] Baselines are north-south, meridians are east-west.
- [x] Baselines are east-west, meridians are north-south.
> **Explanation:** Baselines run east-west while meridians run north-south within the Rectangular Survey System.
### What purpose does a baseline primarily serve?
- [ ] To establish property boundaries.
- [ ] To measure elevation and terrain.
- [x] To provide a reference for north-south measurements.
- [ ] To assess property taxes.
> **Explanation:** A baseline primarily serves to provide a reference for north-south measurements in land descriptions.
### How is land typically subdivided using baselines?
- [x] Into townships and ranges.
- [ ] Into counties and municipalities.
- [ ] Into small plots and building zones.
- [ ] Using natural landmarks and features.
> **Explanation:** Land is subdivided into townships and ranges using baselines and meridians, forming a grid for systematic land description.
### Which U.S. agency mainly uses baselines in their land surveys?
- [ ] Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- [x] Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- [ ] Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- [ ] Department of Commerce
> **Explanation:** The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) uses baselines as part of the Public Land Survey System.
### What is the main function of a meridian in partnership with a baseline?
- [ ] To designate underground resources.
- [ ] To signal historical landmarks.
- [x] To provide vertical references for defining east-west ranges.
- [ ] To indicate oceanic borders.
> **Explanation:** A meridian works alongside a baseline to offer vertical references for defining east-west ranges.
### What kind of line is always associated with a baseline in the Rectangular Survey System?
- [ ] Plot line
- [ ] Zoning boundary
- [ ] Property line
- [x] Meridian line
> **Explanation:** A baseline is always associated with a meridian line in the Rectangular Survey System for accurate land division.
### Besides the U.S., do other countries use baselines for land survey?
- [x] Some countries may use similar systems for land division.
- [ ] Only the U.S. uses baselines.
- [ ] Baselines are used exclusively in Europe.
- [ ] Baselines are a relic of historical surveys and not used anymore.
> **Explanation:** Some other countries may use systems similar to the U.S. Rectangular Survey that include baseline concepts for land division.
### Which major U.S. baseline intersects Kansas and Nebraska?
- [ ] Third Principal Meridian
- [ ] Washington Central Baseline
- [ ] Montana Central Baseline
- [x] Fourth Principal Meridian
> **Explanation:** The Fourth Principal Meridian is a major U.S. baseline that intersects the states of Kansas and Nebraska for land subdivision purposes.
