Principal Meridian

Definition: A principal meridian is the north-south reference line for a particular rectangular survey system.

Example

A township is identified as a specified range east or west of its governing principal meridian.

Keep the distinction clear

Principal means main in this term. The paired base line supplies the east-west reference; Florida's system uses the Tallahassee meridian and base line.

Related terms

Base Line (Surveying) · Range (Government Survey) · Government Survey System

Keep studying

Government Survey: Township, Range, Sections, and Acreage

References: BLM: surveying and mapping glossary

Pronunciation (US): PRIN-suh-puhl muh-RID-ee-uhn (capitals show stress)

Pronunciation reference: Merriam-Webster