What does the "Public Land Survey System" (PLSS) refer to?

The Public Land Survey System (PLSS) is best described as a rectangular survey system that organizes land into Sections, Townships, and Ranges. This system was established to facilitate the surveying and distribution of land in the western United States, particularly in areas acquired by the government from native tribes or other sources.

The PLSS divides land into square townships that are usually six miles by six miles, which are further divided into 36 sections of one square mile each. This method provides a systematic way to identify land parcels and serves as a framework for various land management practices, real estate transactions, and legal descriptions.

Using this structured approach allows for easy referencing and locating of land, making it a foundational element in land surveying and property law in many states, including Oklahoma. The other options describe different aspects of land use or regulation but do not accurately capture the essence of the PLSS.