What does the term principle meridian refer to in land description?

The term principle meridian refers specifically to a meridian used as a reference point for a baseline in land surveying. In the context of the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) in the United States, the principal meridian is a designated longitudinal line from which all land measurements in a given area are derived. This is essential for establishing precise locations of land parcels, as it provides a uniform reference to ensure that land descriptions are accurate and consistent across large geographic areas.

The principal meridian, in conjunction with a baseline, helps to divide lands into townships and sections, which can then be used to determine property ownership and convey legal titles. This system allows for a systematic approach to land surveying and helps mitigate boundary disputes. The importance of the principal meridian in land descriptions lies in its foundational role in ensuring that all land assessments and surveys maintain a degree of accuracy and reliability necessary for legal and commercial purposes.