How to Find Township and Range on Google Earth

Are you trying to locate a specific property or understand the layout of a region? Knowing how to find township and range information can be incredibly helpful. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of finding township and range boundaries using Google Earth.

Firstly, it's essential to know what townships and ranges are. A township is a six-mile square block that divides public land into smaller areas for surveying purposes. Ranges, on the other hand, run north-south along longitude lines. Together, they form a grid system used by government agencies like the U.S. Forest Service.

To find township and range boundaries using Google Earth:

1. Open Google Maps: Start by opening Google Maps on your computer or mobile device.

2. Zoom in to the desired location: Use the zoom feature to focus on the area you're interested in finding township and range information about.

3. Enable Township Boundaries Layer (if available): If you have a stable internet connection, try enabling the 'Township boundaries' layer by clicking on the three horizontal lines at the top left corner of your screen > Layers > Search for 'townships' and enable it if available.

If this option is not available:

4. Use Google Earth's Measurement Tool: Click on the ruler icon in the toolbar to activate the measurement tool.

5. Measure an area: Draw a rectangle around the desired location, ensuring that its sides are parallel with the grid lines (north-south or east-west). This will help you determine the township and range.

6. Calculate Township and Range: Once you have measured the distance between two points within your drawn rectangle, calculate the township by dividing 36 degrees of latitude into six equal parts. The resulting number corresponds to a specific township.

7. Determine Range: Measure along the longitude lines (north-south) from one point on the grid line to another.

8. Verify Information Online: For more accurate information or confirmation purposes, visit online resources like the U.S. Forest Service's Township and Range Map Tool or consult with local authorities for detailed maps of township boundaries in your area.

In conclusion, finding township and range information using Google Earth is a straightforward process that requires minimal technical expertise. By following these steps, you'll be able to locate specific properties or understand regional layouts more effectively.

How to find township and range on google earth