Mapping & Agricultural Manual

Transcription

1 State of Wyoming Department of Revenue 122 West 25th Street Cheyenne, Wyoming

2 Foreword The increasing need for land information, at all levels of government and in the private sector, has resulted in a concentrated effort to create a uniform, Statewide, mapping program. Several Federal, State and Local factions of government have been working toward creating sharable layers of mapping information that may be applied to a wide variety of uses. However, these efforts are difficult to successfully implement. Each agency, whether Federal, State or Local, have their own needs, requirements and funding. Unavoidably, this problem directly impacts the Department of Revenue and each County Assessor s office. Consequently, this manual is being revised and republished for use. The primary mission of the Mapping & Agricultural manual is to establish a one-stop reference source for mapping information, as it applies to taxation. Unlike the previous version of the manual, this document has not been copyrighted. We encourage both the beginning mapping student and the seasoned professional to use this manual as a working document. New sections regarding tax district mapping and the agricultural land valuation study have also been added for convenience. In recognition, we would like to thank the many federal, state and local agencies that provided data for the compilation of the manual. Also, to all the previous authors and, more specifically, to Scott Zimmerman and David Chapman for their efforts preparing this material. Suggestions and comments are welcome as we strive to make this manual an excellent source both as a learning aid and as a source of reference.

3 Mapping Equipment & Supplies Introduction By definition, the concept of the multipurpose mapping system is a framework that supports continuous, readily available, and comprehensive land related information at the parcel level. This "framework" is supported and organized by the major equipment needed to operate the multi purpose mapping system. There are eight major pieces of Equipment needed to organize and maintain a manual mapping system. They are: Drafting light table Drafting machine Automatic lettering machine and/or a 26" carriage typewriter Planimeter Plat book cabinet Map file case (graphic land data files) Plat books and sheet protectors Hanging Map Rack Organization, assembly, and maintenance of a multi-purpose mapping system is accomplished by using mapping equipment. Please note, map equipment and components of the multipurpose mapping system are not the same thing. Chapter II is designed to explain the equipment needs for a manual multipurpose cadastral mapping system. Equipment Description Proper mapping procedures require map files, map cases and drafting equipment. Drafting equipment is sensitive and easily damaged if not properly cared for. This section deals with the equipment that should be organized and assembled in each county office. Since no two county offices are similar in the nature of their construction, each mapping set-up will be different. The major equipment should be organized to make maps accessible so they can be maintained. Preferably, the mapping area should have ample space and accessibility. It must be recognized that organization of the map equipment is essential for proper assessment procedures.

4 Mapping Equipment & Supplies Drafting Light Table. Provides a clean, comfortable working surface. Its light source helps in the display 1" = 200' aerial photography. Most importantly, it provides support for the drafting machine. Figure 2.1. Automatic Lettering Machine Drafting Machine Provides a method to plat bearings and distances of parcels. It provides a mechanism to hold the automatic lettering machine and is designed to work in conjunction with the drafting light table. Automatic Lettering Machine/26" Carriage Typewriter Provides a variety of lettering and symbols making maps neat and readable. Both methods may be used to place type on ownership plats. A 26" carriage typewriter is designed to accept large maps. Its design is very similar to a manual typewriter. An example of an Automatic Lettering Machine is also depicted in Figure 2.1. It is attached to the drafting machine described earlier. Planimeter Provides an accurate method to measure acreage and square footage. An example of a Planimeter is shown in Figure 2.2. October 22,

5 Mapping Equipment & Supplies 5286 Acres 5286 Acres Planimeter Figure 2.2. Planimeter Plat Book Cabinet Provides an easy method to organize and store plat books. An example of a Plat Book Cabinet is depicted in Figure 2.3. Map File Case Provides a map case to hold U.S.G.S. topographic maps, U.S.G.S. orthophotos, color infrared photography, soil surveys, Bureau of Land Management master title plats and mineral and/or surface ownership status maps (other maps) scale 1" = 2000'. Indexes maps quickly for easy access. Organizes maps for easy reference. Organizes 1" = 200' quarter section town lot plats. Organizes 1" = 400' section maps. Please note, by organizing the Map File Case as described above, three (3) different scales of maps will fit into the map file case. Variations of this system using the map file case, section format, can also be incorporated into the system. An example of a map file case can be seen in Figure 2.4. Figure 2.3. Plat Book Cabinet October 22,

6 Mapping Equipment & Supplies Figure 2.4. Map File Case Plat Books & Sheet Protectors Contains ownership overlays for display and convenient storage. Provides easy access and organization for display of land data files beneath ownership overlays. Please note, using this procedure, three different scales of maps will all fit into the plat books and special sheet protectors. Ownership overlays for agricultural lands are on an 18" x 24" format at a scale of 1" = 2000'. One township per map. Ownership overlays for rural subdivisions are on an 18" x 24" format at a scale of 1" = 400'. One section per map. Ownership overlays for town lots are on an 18" x 24" format at a scale of 1" = 200'. One quarter section per map. Hanging Map Rack Contains larger Mylar overlays and maps. This particular rack is very convenient for hanging style maps and is oftentimes equipped with rollers, which makes it mobile and convenient. An example of a hanging map rack can be seen in Figure 2.5. The following lists the various types of maps that are usually housed in this type of map storage: Holds 1" = 200' section format town lot photography. October 22,

7 Mapping Equipment & Supplies Holds 1" = 1200' U.S.G.S. township maps. (Adequate for some mapping problems and will fit the map file case when divided into the quarter township format). Holds 1" = 400' 30" x 30" U.S.G.S. 2,560 acre maps. This mapping format holds four (4) sections per map. Holds 1" = 200' 30" x 30" town lot plat maps. Figure 2.5. Hanging Map Rack October 22,

8 Components of a Mapping Program Introduction By definition, the concept of the multipurpose mapping system is a framework that supports continuous, readily available, and comprehensive land related information at the parcel level. Components of the Wyoming mapping system are: A series of base maps An overlay delineating all parcels A permanent identifying number for each parcel Many government agencies produce maps for various purposes. The amount of money spent to develop these maps is in excess of half a billion dollars. All of these maps and photos can be purchased at a very reasonable cost. Utilizing these maps provides a basis for creating a data base that provides a comprehensive land related mapping program which creates a standard system which can be built in any Wyoming county. A vast majority of counties presently utilize the multipurpose mapping system. Land information systems have undergone very few changes within the last 100 years. Presently, duplication of mapping efforts is widespread and unnecessary. It is also expensive and time consuming. Since all cadastre efforts utilize public land survey data, any duplication of this data not in its original format would be a waste of time and money. Resolution of this problem through use of the multipurpose mapping system reduces office recording costs and promotes the need for better land conveyance procedures. Base Maps "Base Maps" are a difficult concept to comprehend. A Base Map can be obtained in a number of different mediums and can cover a wide range of thematic data. For example, color infrared, high altitude orthophotos, topographic maps, public land survey system and master title plats can all be used as a "Base Map". In some ways, this information is reciprocal in nature. For example, some agencies find that orthophotos make an excellent base map (or back-drop) for various mylar (or clear) overlays. However, where one agency uses orthophotos for a base map, another might just as well use the public land survey system for the base map. This scenario can be continually repeated with several different types of mapping mediums. The only differences being, some base maps (or overlays) are better suited for different tasks. This interchangeable series of base maps and overlays adds greater flexibility in the mapping process. Base Maps are normally stored in a map file case and can be considered the first component in the mapping process. Standardization of the base map format, for easy access and indexing, can

9 Components of a Mapping Program be accomplished by splicing each series of maps into township format and placing them on an 18" x 24".005 mill poster board. Acquisition Methods } Meets & Bounds Surveys Official Cadastral Surveys - (BLM) Parcels Other Legal Surveys Boundaries Recorded Plats Easements -Subdivisions Wetlands -Easements -Registration Utilities Utility Records Mines Photogrammetry Field Surveys BLM Records USGS SCS Types of Overlays } Geodetic Control Township Corners Range Corners Section Corners Public Lands Well Sites - (oil & gas) Ag Lands Items in a Base Map Roads Railroads Waterways Wetlands Airports Figure 3.1 Data acquisition methods Again, there are many series of base maps, not all of which are necessary for implementation of the system. Figure 3.2 shows the approved method of organization for the 1" = 2000' base map. The topographic maps, orthophotos, master title plats, color infrared photos and soil surveys can all be spliced and mounted into township format. Afterwards can be placed in a map file case for easy access and reference. The base map series can be used as a guideline for the last component of the mapping process, a unique number identifying each individual parcel. Base Map - Definitions Each map series is briefly described, an example is shown and a legend for interpretation is given on the following page when necessary. Common uses for assessment practices are given in the map descriptions. United States Geological Survey Topographic Maps United States Geological Survey Orthophoto Maps Bureau of Land Management Master Title Plats United States Department of Agriculture Soil Surveys Color Infrared Aerial Photography July 30,

10 Components of a Mapping Program Maps are arranged in a logical, sequencial order and are kept indexed and very accessable Figure 3.2 Organization of base map media Title Block Survey Control Soils Color Infrared Master Title Plat Town Lots & Rural Subdivisions 1" = 200' Agricultural Lands 1" = 2000' Figure 3.3 Concept of the multipurpose mapping system Please remember that each series of base maps can be spliced, mounted and displayed beneath the ownership overlay since they are all at the same scale. Utilizing this method creates a tremendous land data resource base and adds greater flexibility to the entire mapping program. July 30,

11 Components of a Mapping Program USGS Topographic Maps Map Scale: 1" = 2000' or 1 =24,000 Description: A topographic map accurately represents the natural and man-made features of the land. U.S.G.S. topographic maps are compiled to National Map Accuracy Standards using modern mapping techniques. The shape and elevation of the terrain are portrayed by contour lines and specific features such as roads, towns, water areas, and vegetation are portrayed by map symbols and colors. Common Uses For Assessment Practices: When spliced into township format and mounted on an 18" x 24" poster board card, these maps provide a basis to locate and describe man-made features. Provide a drawing guide to plat ownership parcels on agricultural lands. Provide survey control which complies with National Map Accuracy Standards. Provide a basis to splice the color infrared photography into township format. Example: Reduced USGS map with corresponding legend shown on following page. July 30,

12 Components of a Mapping Program Figure 3.4 Cut and mounted topographic map July 30,

13 Components of a Mapping Program Figure 3.5 Topographic map legend July 30,

14 Components of a Mapping Program U.S.G.S. Orthophotoquads Map Scale: 1" = 2000' Description: An orthophotoquad is a black-and-white photo image prepared from aerial photographs that have been rectified to eliminate image displacement due to terrain relief. Orthophotoquads are generally prepared in 7.5-minute quadrangle format and contain a reference grid and a few geographic names for orientation. They are useful as companions to standard topographic maps. Common Uses For Assessment Practices: 1. When spliced into the township format and mounted on an 18" x 24" poster board card, these photo images can be used in conjunction with the topographic maps to value areas of productivity on agricultural lands where soil surveys do not exist. Please note: No legend exists for this map. Interpretation is done by visual inspection of the photo image. July 30,

15 Components of a Mapping Program BLM Master Title Plats Map Scale: 30 chains to the inch or approximately 1" = 2000'. Description: The ownership plat, or master title plat as it is commonly called, shows the land which has been patented, the patent number, the reservations to the United States as stated in the patent, and the land which is still vacant, Federal land often times referred to as vacant public domain. Withdrawals, right-of-way, national forests, Indian reservations, wildlife refuges, and other such similar reservations and actions are also shown. Lands which have been patented and then re-acquired by the United States are shown on the new records and are referred to as acquired lands. Common Uses For Assessment Practices: Mounted on an 18" x 24" poster board card. Maps can be used to plat ownership parcels according to the original surveys or re-surveys. Show all Known Geological Structures (KGS) on Federal land, which indicate the presence of oil field equipment. Are the basis for the.5" = 1 mile land status and mineral ownership maps. Approximately 20% of the townships in the State of Wyoming have been resurveyed. To correctly plat ownership parcels in accordance to the original survey which shows that land which has been patented, the overlay system must be used. Each master title plat has a tract index which converts the legal description of the original survey to the new legal description of the re-survey. Both descriptions are legally correct and many land title descriptions generally use the original survey. By using this technique, data from the two surveys can be combined onto the overlay and the overlay can then be placed onto the other series of base maps. This is the only known method of correctly interpreting original surveys back to what actually exists on the surface of the earth. In order to value the productivity of the agricultural lands, this correlation between the two surveys must be understood and the importance of the master title plats must not be overlooked. Example: The following illustrations show a copy of a spliced and mounted master title plat and a corresponding legend. Please note, a master title plat is an excellent means in which to show metes and bounds legal descriptions by tracing the information onto a clear mylar overlay. July 30,

16 Components of a Mapping Program Township 46 North Range 104 West MT PLAT Index To Segregated Tracts Resurvey Original Survey Tract No. T R Sec. Subdivision Figure 3.6 BLM Master Title Plat July 30,

17 Components of a Mapping Program Figure 3.7 Master Title Plat legend July 30,

18 Components of a Mapping Program USDA Soil Surveys Map Scale: 1" = 2000' (1:24,000) Note: Some areas have been published at a larger scale, 1" = 1600' (1:20,000), and are reduced to fit the 1" = 2000' multipurpose cadastre overlay system. (The Department of Transportation s xerox 2080 does this easily.) Description: Soil surveys are produced by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (formerly the Soil Conservation Service). These publications specifically delineate soil types for engineering, physical and chemical properties, and soil productivity classifications. Common Uses For Assessment Practices: When spliced into township format and placed on an 18" x 24" poster board card these maps provide soil productivity classifications for irrigated, dry crop land and range land. Figure 3.8 Cut & mounted soil survey map July 30,

19 Components of a Mapping Program Color Infrared Aerial Photos Map Scale: 1" = 2000' Description: High altitude photography collected for general use in map making. Common Uses For Assessment Practices: When spliced into the township format and placed on an 18" x 24" poster board card, these aerial photographs specifically delineate irrigated lands, dry crop lands, and range lands. July 30,

20 Components of a Mapping Program Overlays The second component of the cadastre program, the overlay, is an important ingredient in the mapping process. As mentioned earlier, overlays (as well as base maps) can be obtained in a number of different mediums and can cover a wide range of thematic data. As with the base maps, overlays can consist of topographic maps, public land surveys, master title plats, etc. Master Township Overlay Township plats and other data relating to the public land survey system are kept on file at the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management office. From these original surveys and re-surveys, township grids are developed. These grids are then placed (duplicated) on a clear polyester film (black line mylar) with a matte surface on one side. The dimensions of the overlays are normally 18" x 24". These overlays are then placed into the special sheet protectors and in turn the sheet protectors are placed in plat books. The black line mylar can then be used to overlay on the base map series, displaying the graphic land data files contained in the map file case(s). Topographic maps, orthophotos, color infrared photography, master title plats, and soil surveys can all be displayed beneath the clear ownership overlay very simply. All scales used are at 1" = 2000' SIXTH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN T.45N., R61W. WESTON COUNTY code ownership 001 BLM State of Wyoming 003 John Doe 004 Jim Smith Figure 3.9 Master township overlay July 30,

21 Components of a Mapping Program Specialty Maps When a quarter section map reflects too much detail and becomes congested or illegible (as with some subdivision platting), a specialty map may be created. The specialty map (figure 3.10) uses the same provisions as a quarter section map, except that it uses a larger scale to help identify smaller details. Accordingly, the assigned parcel identification number should be clearly reflected on the specialty map and all format and size restraints, as detailed throughout this chapter, should be adhered to. Please remember, the specialty map should also be marked reciprocally, clearly identifying the quarter section map from which the specialty map is derived. 28 SEE MAP TWP.-RGE For 1" = 400' 18" x 24", section format SEE MAP TWP.-RGE.-28 For 1" = 200' 18" x 24", ¼ section format 28 Figure 3.10 An overall view of the area in question and consideration of the ability to represent each parcel accurately are the primary factors in determining the appropriate scale to be used. As a general rule, most tracts greater than 1 acre can be processed on the 1" = 400' format. Each parcel is mapped according to an owner's legal description and assigned a three digit P.I.D.N. The parcel identification number representing the parcel contains the county number, township, range, section, and quarter-section according to its geographic location; "00" is used in place of an arbitrary block number; and the corresponding P.I.D.N. as assigned to the property. Please note, when utilizing the Quarter Section Designation, without an Arbitrary Block Designation, there are nine hundred and ninety nine (999) different numeric options available for each quarter section number. Subsequently, for four (4) quarter sections there are 3,996 different numeric combinations available. Moreover, when the Arbitrary Block Designation is utilized, the numeric combinations increase exponentially. July 30,

22 Components of a Mapping Program Rural Subdivision Plat Maps Map Scale: 1" = 400' Media Size: 30" x 30" 1" = 200' 18" x 24" Description: A rural subdivision plat map represents subdivisions platted outside of all established city limit boundaries. The original plats for these subdivisions are filed in the county clerk s office, and are used as a base for compiling the assessment maps. These maps, when compiled, contain the township, range, and sections as applicable. They also contain road names, subdivision names, block designations, and lot numbers as required. Common Uses For Assessment Practices: When compiled to a 1" = 400' format on 30" x 30" mylar film, in 4-section format, an assessor can locate, describe, and assess subdivisions outside the city limits with greater ease and accuracy. Determining whether to use a scale of 1" = 400' or 1" = 200' is based on individual assessment of lot sizes and population for a specific area. 1" = 400' - 30" x 30" mylar best serves most rural subdivisions. Note: The 1" = 400' 30" x 30" 4 section maps can be spliced into 1" = 400' 1 section maps and filed in the 18" x 24" base mapping system. If a 1" = 200' scale is used, a 30" x 30" mylar will accommodate a full 640 acre section. When the section format is used, these maps can be filed with the 18" x 24" base maps. The proper method of assigning a parcel identification number is discussed fully later in this Chapter. July 30,

23 Components of a Mapping Program City Lot/Block Assessment Plat Maps Map Scale: 1" = 200' Media Size: 18" x 24" 1" = 100' 30" x 30" Description: A city lot/block assessment plat map represents lots and blocks platted to a subdivision within a city limits boundary. The original plats filed in the county clerk s office are used as a base for compiling the assessment maps into a section or quarter-section format. These maps, when compiled, contain road names, subdivision names, block designations, and lot numbers. They also contain the township, range, section, and quarter-section designation as pertains to each plat. Common Uses For Assessment Practices: When compiled to a 1" = 200' format on an 18" x 24" mylar film, in a quarter-section format, these plats provide the assessor with a means to accurately locate, describe, and assess property for ad valorem taxes. Determining whether to use a scale of 1" = 200' or 1" = 100' is based on individual assessment of the lot sizes and population for a specific area. 1" = 200' - 18" x 24" mylar best serves most city areas. If a 1" = 100' scale is used, an 18" x 24" mylar will accommodate up to 40 acres, or a quarter-quarter-section. If the 30" x 30" format is used \ section will be accommodated. The proper method of assigning a parcel identification number is discussed fully later in this Chapter. July 30,

24 Components of a Mapping Program Condominium Assessment Plat Maps Map Scale: 1" = 200' Media Size: 18" x 24" 1" = 100' 30" x 30" Description: Condominium units require special treatment for assigning Parcel Identification Numbers and mapping. In order for property to be considered under condominium ownership, written notice of condominium ownership must have been given to the county assessor as provided for in state statute. Condominium ownership as recognized in the State of Wyoming consists of a separate fee simple estate in an individual air space unit of a multi-unit property together with an undivided fee simple interest in common elements. The percent of common elements value to be assigned to each individual air space unit is defined in the recorded condominium declaration. Common Uses For Assessment Practices: When compiled to a 1" = 200' format on an 18" x 24" mylar film, in a quarter-section format, these plats provide the assessor with a means to accurately locate, describe, and assess property for ad valorem taxes. Determining whether to use a scale of 1" = 200' or 1" = 100' is based on individual assessment of the lot sizes and population for a specific area. 1" = 200' - 18" x 24" mylar best serves most city areas. If a 1" = 100' scale is used, an 18" x 24" mylar will accommodate up to 40 acres, or a quarter-quarter-section. If the 30" x 30" format is used \ section will be accommodated. The proper method of assigning a parcel identification number is discussed fully later in this Chapter. July 30,

25 Components of a Mapping Program Parcel Identification Numbers Introduction The need for a uniform parcel identification numbering system in any mapping program is essential. To maximize the potential that Wyoming has in its' cadastral mapping system, the following numbering system has been developed. It is not only is easily adapted to existing maps now in circulation, but leaves a vast array of possibilities for future expansion of the mapping program. The parcel identification is an essential step in the cadastral mapping program. This number must geographically locate a parcel and identify that parcel with a number that can not be duplicated. Rectangular Survey System History The United States rectangular survey system, also known as the public land survey system, was established by ordinance of the Continental Congress in 1785, and has been updated by a series of amended laws since that time. The ordinance directed that the public lands be surveyed and subdivided by a system that incorporated spherical primary lines and rectangular secondary lines for the purpose of description and disposal of the public domain. The original thirteen states, as well as Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, Texas and Hawaii are not covered by the rectangular survey system but all other states, including Wyoming, are included in the system. Prior to 1910, by which time most of Wyoming's original survey had been completed, it was the practice of government officials to award contracts for the survey based on political favoritism and not professional merit or competence. This resulted in poor quality work being done on a considerable portion of the survey. Often what should have been laid out as a standard subdivision of land is of irregular acreage due to surveying errors of this time period. Conversely, some of the early surveys were extremely accurate even without consideration of the crude instruments used, rough terrain covered, harsh weather conditions and hostile Indian encounters. General Description The United States rectangular survey was designed for orderly subdivision of land tracts. A general description of the subdividing procedure follows. An area covered by a government rectangular survey was first divided into tracts approximately 24 miles square by means of true meridians and parallels of latitude. A meridian is a line that follows the spherical surface of the earth and if extended would pass through both the north and south poles. Any two meridian lines, therefore, converge as they progress toward the poles. A July 30,

26 Components of a Mapping Program parallel of latitude is a line that follows the spherical surface of the earth parallel to the equator. These 24 mile square (576 square mile) tracts were then divided into 16 townships, which are approximately 6 miles on a side. The townships were then further subdivided into 36 approximately one square mile tracts, called sections. Initial Point The point of origin of the rectangular survey of a region is referred to as the initial point. Through each initial point runs a true parallel of latitude called a baseline and a true meridian called the principal meridian. There are several initial points with corresponding baseline and principal meridians located throughout the United States; each controls a different region of the rectangular survey. The majority of all lands in Wyoming are surveyed in reference to the Sixth Principal Meridian. The initial point of this survey is located on the Nebraska-Kansas state line (approximately 70 miles southwest of Lincoln, Nebraska). All land tracts within the Wind River Indian Reservation are referenced to the Wind River Meridian. The initial point of this survey is just east of Fort Washakie, Wyoming. Standard Lines Standard parallels are true parallels of latitude laid out at twenty-four mile intervals north and south from the baseline. The parallels run east and west and are continuous through the region covered by the survey. Guide meridians complete the division of the 24-mile-square tracts. Guide meridians begin at points on the baseline or standard parallels at intervals of 24 miles east and west of the principal meridian and run north along a true meridian to the intersection of the next standard parallel. Due to the convergence of meridians, guide meridians are 24 miles apart only at the starting point and are less than 24 miles apart at all other points. The monuments set at the starting points of the guide meridians are called standard corners and the monuments set where the guide meridians intersect with the standard parallels to the north are referred to as closing corners. The order of numbering of standard lines is displayed in Figure Township Exteriors Range lines and township lines define the exterior boundaries of the six mile-square townships. Range lines run north and south along a true meridian, whereas township lines run east and west parallel to the standard parallels. Range lines begin at points on the baseline and standard parallels and extend north six miles to the next standard parallel. Township lines are laid out on six mile intervals and extend through the guide meridian, principal meridians and range lines. July 30,

27 Components of a Mapping Program T3N, R3W FIRST STANDARD PARALLEL NORTH T.4N MERIDIAN EAST MERIDIAN WEST R.4W R.3W R.2W R.1W T.3N T.2N R.2E INITIAL POINT R.3E R.4E FIRST GUIDE STANDARD CORNER CLOSING CORNER FIRST STANDARD T.1S T.2S T.3S T.4S PARALLELSOUTH FIRST GUIDE T3S, R4E Figure 3.11 Township exteriors Numbering Townships Each township is assigned a number that is unique to only that township. This number consists of a range and tier number with reference to the principal meridian and baseline of the survey district. The word township may and is often substituted for tier. For example, townships which are in the third row of townships north of the baseline are in tier 3 north. Townships which are in the second range of townships west of the principal meridian are in range 2 west. By this system, any township is specifically located when its tier, range and the principal meridian is given as in Township 3 North, Range 3 West, of the Sixth Principal Meridian illustrated in Figure This can be abbreviated as T3S, R3W, 6th P.M. All townships in Wyoming that are referenced to the Sixth Principal Meridian are north and west of the initial point of the survey district. As mentioned in Section 2 of this manual, Wyoming's tier or township designations begin on the south boundary of the state with township 12 north and end on the north boundary of the state with township 58 north. Wyoming's range designations begin with range 60 west and end on the west boundary of the state with range 121 west. Lands within the Wind River Meridian Survey in Wyoming may fall into any of the four quadrants of the survey. Tier or township numbers extend from 2 south to 9 north, and range numbers extend from 6 east to 6 west. July 30,

28 Components of a Mapping Program Subdivision of Townships Each township is subdivided into 36 sections. The aim in subdividing the townships was to secure as many equal one square mile sections as possible. This was accomplished by throwing all the error due to convergence of meridians as far west as possible by running lines parallel to the east boundary of the township, rather than running them as true meridians. In establishment of the east/west section lines any errors in linear measurement of the township were pushed as far north as possible. Therefore, with the exclusion of errors in the layout of section lines, all sections except for those that border the north and west boundaries of the township should be one mile square and of equal acreage (640 acres). Sections are numbered consecutively beginning with 1 in the northeast corner and ending with 36 in the southeast corner as illustrated in Figure Meandering All important lakes and rivers that fall within a government survey are defined by meandering. Meander corners are set at every point where standard, township or section lines intersect the banks of a navigable body of water, defined as any river 3 chains (198 feet) or more in width, and any lake with a surface area greater than or equal to 25 acres. Meander corners are connected by a traverse of straight lines (meander lines) which roughly follow the high water line of the body of water. Subdivision of Sections The section is further divided into regular subdivisions. These regular subdivisions include: The quarter section, which is 1/2 mile square (40 chains square) and covers 160 acres of area; the half-quarter section which is 1/2 mile by 1/4 mile (40 chains by 20 chains) and covers 80 acres; and the quarter-quarter section which is 1/4 mile square (20 chains square) and covers 40 acres. In addition, the ten sections along the north and west boundaries of the township (Sections 1-6, 7, 18, 19, 30, 31) contain irregular parcels. When these sections are subdivided as many regular subdivisions as possible are secured and any irregularities due to convergence or field work are placed in the northern and/or western-most parcels. These irregular parcels are referred to as fractional lots or government lots. The four fractional lots along the northern boundaries of sections 1-5 are numbered 1 through 4 progressively from east to west in each section. The fractional lots in sections 7, 18, 19, 30 and 31 are numbered 1 through 4 north to south in each section. Fractional lots in section 6 are numbered as illustrated in Figure 3.12; both regular and irregular subdivisions of sections are illustrated in the figure. Legal Description The United States rectangular survey system results in an orderly method for description of land for the purposes of location and conveyance. The correct order of reference for a 40 acre tract would be quarter-quarter section, followed by quarter section, then section number followed by township, range and meridian. For example, if the land parcel south July 30,

29 Components of a Mapping Program of lot 3 and east of lot 5 in Figure E.2 was in township 45 north, range 61 west, Weston County Wyoming, the description would be written as SE 1/4, NW 1/4, sec. 6, T45N, R61W, 6th P.M. Similarly, fractional lot 1 in the figure would be described as NE1/4, NE1/4, sec. 6, T45N, R61W, 6th P.M. Fractional 20.0 chains 20.0 chains 20.0 chains 20.0 chains 20.0 chains 20.0 chains 20.0 chains ' SE¼, NW¼ S½, NE¼ 40 ac. 80 ac. SEC. 6 W½, SW¼ SE¼ 80 ac. 160 ac. 2640' 1 Fractional 20.0 chains Fractional Figure 3.12 Metes and Bounds Introduction There are three principal types of legal descriptions of land used in the United States; the rectangular survey description, the lot block description and the metes and bounds description. The lot block description is used when the boundaries of the property coincide exactly with a lot within a subdivision for which there is an official recorded plat. The lot may be legally described by a statement giving the lot and block numbers and the name, date, and place of filing of the map. Metes and bounds is a survey system that defines land parcels by describing the courses and lengths of all boundaries of the parcel. The metes and bounds system of land description is often used instead of, or in conjunction with, the rectangular survey system, especially when describing irregularshaped parcels of land that cannot be thoroughly described by the rectangular system. Often the point of beginning of a metes and bounds description is referenced to a monument of the United States Rectangular Survey System. An example of a simple metes and bounds description follows: "That part of the NE 1/4, section 9, T25N, R61W, 6th P.M., Goshen County, Wyoming, and being a part of the lands of M. Rosalee Black (Book 12, page 116, office of the County Clerk) and more particularly described as follows: July 30,

30 Components of a Mapping Program Commencing at the southeast corner of said NE 1/4' thence northerly along the east boundary of said NE 1/4 a distance of feet to the point of beginning: thence west a distance of feet; thence northerly parallel to the east boundary of said NE 1/4 a distance of 600 feet; thence east a distance of feet to the east boundary of said NE 1/4; thence southerly along the east boundary of said NE 1/4 a distance of feet to the point of beginning, containing 5.51 acres, more or less." Contents Metes and bounds descriptions are arranged into three principal parts; a caption, the body, and any qualifying or augmenting clauses. The caption provides information concerning the vicinity, often referenced to the public land survey, within which the parcel lies. The body of the description presents the information that makes possible the physical location of the parcel on the ground. The qualifying clause and augmenting clause respectively remove the add rights to the area previously described in the body of the description. An example of a qualifying clause that would follow the body of the description is: "Excepting therefrom the southerly feet." An example of an augmenting clause would be: "and granting an easement for a feet of the above excepted feet." The following elements may be contained within the body of a complete metes and bounds description: Reference point: Permanent, well marked and easily identified. This point is not a corner of the property. Point of beginning: (POB), a property corner which is the starting and ending point of the property description. This point should be easily identifiable and permanent. Definite corners at each corner of the property. Preferably these would be clearly defined by some sort of survey monument. Lengths and directions of all property sides. Distances may be in chains or feet. Bearings may be referenced to magnetic, grid, or true north and should be so stated in the description. Names adjoining property owners. For further description and clarity. However calls for monuments in place controls title over calls for adjacent property owners. Area. For further description of the property and the land to be conveyed. July 30,

31 Components of a Mapping Program All of these elements will not appear in all descriptions. Metes and bounds descriptions may be written by surveyors, lawyers or private land owners and consequently vary considerably in content. Descriptions may vary from the simple and incomplete to the concise and accurate. Below is the metes and bounds description for the parcel depicted in Figure Part of the SW 1/4, section 32, T15N, R732, 6th P.M., Albany County, Wyoming and also being a part of the land of Mary D. Lackey (Book 13, page 216, Office of the County Clerk) containing acres and more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the southwest corner of said section, said corner being marked by a two-inch (inner diameter) pipe with brass cap and also being the southwest corner of Gerald S. Rayon; thence NO`01'00.0"W (all bearings given in this description are astronomic) along the west boundary of said SW 1/4, a distance of feet to the northwest corner of the land of Rayon, said corner being marked by a one-inch (inner-diameter) pipe, and being the point of beginning: thence continuing NO`01'00.0"W along the west boundary of said SW 1/4, said line also being a portion of the east boundary of Charles E. Thim, a distance of feet to a three-quarter inch rebar; thence on the following four courses through the land of Lackey (1) N89`59'00.1"E a distance of feet to a three-quarter inch rebar, (2) S44`59'59.9"E a distance of feet to a three-quarter inch rebar, (3) N89`59'00.1"E a distance of feet to a three-quarter inch rebar and (4) S0`01'00.0"E a distance of feet to the northwest corner of Rayon, said corner being marked by a one-inch (inner diameter) pipe; thence S89`58'59"W along the north boundary of Rayon a distance of meters to the point of beginning. The description contains a general statement which indicates the approximate location of the land. The body of the deed includes a specific description of the parcel by the method of successive metes and bounds. The description has a point of beginning which is referenced to the rectangular survey monument. The reference is needed to fix the position of the land being conveyed. Then each course is described in turn and the description ends with a return to the point of beginning. Included in the description is the basis for the bearing (true north). The expression "more or less" which follows the computed area allows for only minor errors. It avoids "nuisance suits" for insignificant variations. July 30,

32 Components of a Mapping Program Distances & Directions Distances used in metes and bounds descriptions may be given in feet and decimals of feet, chains, or more rarely meters. A chain is sixty-six feet, or four rods in length. The Gunter's chain, which is now obsolete but at one time was commonly used for surveying in this country, was divided into one-hundred links; each link being 7.92 inches. Distances given in chains may be written as chains and decimals of chains, or as chains and links. Figure 3.14 Figure 3.13 Example of a metes & bounds plat Directions in metes and bounds descriptions may be in the form of azimuths, bearings, or angles referenced to the previous line of the survey. Azimuths are angles measured clockwise from a given meridian (Figure 3.14). Azimuths range from 0` to 360`. Please note that a circle is comprised of 360 degrees within its full arc. Each degree may be further divided into 60 minutes, and each minute into sixty seconds. Azimuths are most often referenced to true north, magnetic north, or less commonly grid north. True north is a line (meridian) running directly to the geographic north pole. True north is also referred to as astronomic north. Magnetic north is a line directly to the magnetic north pole. The magnetic north pole is located in northern Canada approximately 1,000 miles from the geographic north pole. Because of irregularities in the earths magnetic field the magnetic declination (the difference between magnetic and true north) shifts over time. It is therefore important to know the date of the survey in order to July 30,

33 Components of a Mapping Program know the exact direction of the magnetic meridian. Grid north is referenced to the meridians of an established plane survey, such as the state plane coordinate system. Directions in metes and bounds descriptions are most commonly given in bearings. The bearing of a line is the angle between the reference meridian and the line measured either from the north or south toward the east or west. As with azimuths the reference meridian may be true or magnetic. The bearing angle is never greater than 90`. The bearing is written to state whether the angle is measured from the north or south and also whether the angle is measured to the east or west. For example, if a line has a bearing of S45`30'E, the line is easterly of the south meridian by an angle of 45 degrees 30 minutes (see Figure 3.13). Although not as common, directions may also be given by the angle from a previous line in the survey. The angle may be in the form of an interior, exterior or deflection angle. These three types of angles are illustrated in Figure A deflection angle is usually indicated in a metes and bounds description by the words "... from the prolongation of the preceding course." Figure 3.15 Plotting & Closure A land parcel can be accurately plotted on a map from the metes and bounds description. Once the reference point is located on the map, the angle to the point of beginning is turned from the reference meridian that coincides with the orientation of the map. This can be done with use of a protractor or preferably the drafting machine. The distance to the POB is then scaled off along this angle, using the scale that corresponds to that of the map, and the POB is marked on the map. The angle of the first course is then turned at the marked POB, the distance to the first corner is scaled off, and the corner is marked. At the first corner of the property marked on the map the direction and distance of the second call (course) is scaled off to plot the second corner. All succeeding calls are plotted in a like manner until the last call returns to the POB. When carefully plotted, and if there are no surveying or clerical errors, the last call should "close" exactly on the POB. Any difference that results from the plotted location of the last call and the point of beginning is referred to as "error of closure". The interested individual may mathematically compute what the true error of closure is. Furthermore, there are various mathematical procedures that can be used to distribute the error evenly to all sides of the parcel and cause the traverse to close. These mathematical procedures are outlined in any good surveying textbook and can be can easily applied with a programmable calculator or personal computer. July 30,

34 Components of a Mapping Program Parcel Identification Number Configuration The parcel identification number is comprised of digits that represent the parcel as its locator. Example: [xx] [xx] [xx] [xx] [x] [xx] [xxx] [xx] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) 1). Assigned County Number 2 digits 2). Township 2 digits 3). Range 2 digits 4). Section 2 digits 5). Quarter-section 1 digit 6). Block 2 digits 7). P.I.D.N. 3 digits 8). Undefined 2 digits County Number Description: The first 2 digits of the parcel number are the county number. Wyoming is divided into twenty-three (23) counties as shown in the following diagram. Example: [21] [xx] [xx] [xx] [x] [xx] [xxx] [xx] 11 - Park 9 - Big Horn 3 - Sheridan 18 - Crook 17 - Campbell 22 - Teton 20 - Washakie 16 - Johnson 21 - Weston 15 - Hot Springs 14 - Niobrara 23 - Sublette 10 - Fremont 1 - Natrona 13 - Converse 7 - Goshen 8 - Platte 12 - Lincoln 4 - Sweetwater 6 - Carbon 5 - Albany 19 - Uinta 2 - Laramie July 30, Figure 3.16

35 Components of a Mapping Program Township Designation Description: The next two digits of the parcel number are the township number. Wyoming's townships begin on the south boundary of the state with Township 12 North and end on the north boundary of the state with Township 58 North. Example: [21] [45] [xx] [xx] [x] [xx] [xxx] [xx] T48N UPTON T47N T46N OSAGE T45N T44N NEWCASTLE T43N T42N T41N R68W R67W R66W R65W R64W R63W R62W R61W R60W [21] [45] [xx] [xx] [x] [xxx] [xx] Figure 3.17 Township designation map Note: There are township designations in Wyoming that are "1/2" townships. Only two digits are available in the parcel number for this entry. An arbitrary two digit number has been assigned to adapt to this system. This arbitrary number will be used in the two digit "township" area of the parcel number when appropriate. Existing Arbitrary Assignment T 25 ½ N "0l" T 48 ½ N "02" T 56 ½ N "03" T 55 ½ N "04" July 30,

36 Components of a Mapping Program Range Designation Description: The next two digits in the parcel number are the range number. Wyoming's range designations are indexed from the east to west. The east boundary of the state begins with Range 60 West and ends on the west boundary of the state with Range 121 West. Example: [21] [45] [61] [xx] [x] [xx] [xxx] [xx] There is an added consideration to be viewed when addressing this area of the parcel identification number. If the range designation for the area in question, exceeds the allotted two digits, drop the first digit to the left and insert the remaining two digits in the proper space. Example: If one were to attempt to use Range 121 West, the "1" on the left would be dropped. The remaining "21" would designate the two digit value. T48N UPTON T47N T46N OSAGE T45N NEWCASTLE T44N T43N T42N T41N R68W R67W R66W R65W R64W R63W R62W R61W R60W [21] [45] [61] [xx] [x] [xx] [xxx] [xx] Figure 3.18 Note: There are range designations in Wyoming that are "½" ranges. Only two digits are available in the parcel number for this entry. These ½ ranges have been arbitrarily assigned a two digit number to adapt to this system. Existing Arbitrary Assignment R 67 ½ W "25" R 72 ½ W "40" July 30,