What do township lines represent in land surveying?

Township lines are crucial components in the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) and are defined as horizontal lines that run parallel to the Baseline. These lines delineate the areas of land into townships, which are six miles by six miles squares. The Baseline serves as the starting reference point for measuring north and south township lines. In this context, township lines allow surveyors to create a grid system across the land, essential for mapping and land division purposes.

Other options focus on boundaries or dimensions not related to township lines. For example, vertical boundaries pertain to range lines, while county boundaries and dimensions of residential areas do not accurately describe the specific function or nature of township lines in surveying. Understanding the role of township lines as parallel to the Baseline helps in grasping how land is organized and surveyed in the United States.