how to find township and range on a topographic map

Most geographical areas have been mapped at different scales.

'Large is small' or the larger the second number the smaller the scale (detail) of the map. The first number is always '1' and the second number is different for each scale.

One unit of measurement on the map represents 100,000 of the same unit of measurement on the ground. Map scales are usually given as a ratio, i.e. Scale is the relationship between distances on the map and distances in the 'real world'. This means that all the information must be shown proportionately smaller than it actually is. A map must also be a convenient and usable size. Maps must accurately show distance and location. If you add a '4' to the last digit = city.If you add a '3' to the last digit = county.If you add a '2' to the last digit = physical area.If you add a '1' to the last digit = subject.General, non-specific maps will end with the digit '0' (a few end in '5') This last digit can be modified to make the map more specific. The first set of four numbers following the 'G' refers to the geographic location represented on the map. All cataloged maps begin with the letter designation 'G'. (Don't forget to always include the term 'maps')Īnother way to find a cataloged map is to browse through the map drawers.

Here is a short list of some of the most commonly used subject qualifiers: 'California' 'mines and mineral resources' 'maps'. To do this you may enter a subject category with the geographical location., i.e. However, you may want to limit your available resources. You will see a listing of all maps pertaining to California. The easiest method is to enter the geographic location (country, state, county, city, national park, region, river, etc.) i.e. You search for a map as you would search for a book. Many maps appear on the Library's catalog. These maps are shelved numerically according to their call numbers in the map cases. Note: not all maps in the collection are cataloged.Ĭataloged maps, like books, have a call number.

How to find township and range on a topographic map