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2. Describing and Mapping Land

In this module, we will discuss:

• Three means of describing real estate• Types of maps available to land-use

professionals and how to read them

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Metes and Bounds

• Oldest means of describing real estate in the U.S.

• Used in original 13 colony states • Presented in running prose style • Landmarks and features mentioned in

the description may relocate or no longer exist

• Least accurate method of describing real estate

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Lot and Block

• Used to describe parcels, usually city lots, within a large tract

• Based on a plat map • Municipalities usually base real estate

taxes on the lot and block system and assign tax identification numbers (TINs) or tax parcel numbers based on it

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Rectangular Survey

• Used in states that lie west of original colonies

• Symmetrical and orderly • Principal meridian is a true north-

south line • Adjustments must be made for earth’s

curvature

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Topographic Map

• Shows the contours and elevation of the land

• Contour lines and symbols are drawn to show natural features

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Aerial Maps

• Bird’s eye view of the land • Provide a “stop action” viewpoint,

when looking at land-use progression environmental and wildlife habitat preservation or degradation

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Location Maps

• Street and highway maps

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Plat Maps

• Plan for a tract of land, such as a township or a subdivision

Plat maps are drawn to:

• Designate roads• Assure access to property• Create easements• Establish/assure compliance with

zoning, regulations, and lot size• Plan access to public utilities, water,

and sewer hookups

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Soil Surveys

• Not a type of map, but include detailed soil maps

• Show the presence and distribution of types of soils

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Soil Capability ClassesLand Suited to Cultivation and Other Uses

Class I Soils reflect the most desirable soil properties with few restrictions on use.

Class II Soils have limitations that require special management practices.

Class III Soils exhibit severe permanent limitations or frequent hazards that restrict choices of crops and may require special management practices.

Class IV Soils are, at best, marginally suited to cultivation.

Land Limited in Use—Generally Not Suited to Cultivation

Class V

Soils have fewer erosion hazards than class IV soils but normally are subject to other shortcomings.

Class VI

Soils have similar restrictions to class IV soils but the hazards are more pronounced.

Class VII

Soils have limitations similar to class VI.

Class VIII

Soils cannot be used for any traditional agricultural purpose.

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Soil Texture Triangle

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Flood Maps

• Developed by FEMA for flood plain management and insurance purposes

• Risk areas are rated high risk A, moderate to low B or C, coastal V, or undetermined D.

• Can be obtained through the FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov

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Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

• Computer-based tools for mapping and geographically analyzing objects and demographic patterns