Settlement Patterns and Survey Methods

Settlement Patterns

• Clustered Settlement:

  • Little space between items or practices.
  • Higher population density.
  • More daily interactions and a closer community.
  • Example: Terrace farming in China.

• Dispersed Settlement:

  • Space between settlements or farms.
  • Less daily interaction between citizens and farmers.
  • Utilizes more land efficiently.
  • Example: Corn farms in the Midwest, USA.

• Linear Settlement:

  • Arranged in a line, often along transportation routes.
  • Allows easy access to goods and services.
  • Example: Settlements along a river in Quebec, Canada.

Survey Methods

• Long Lot Survey System:

  • Land divided into narrow parcels.
  • Each parcel has access to a river or road.
  • Frequently used in linear settlement patterns.

• Metes and Bounds:

  • Utilizes straight lines and geographic features to define areas.
  • More common on the East Coast of the USA and in Texas.
  • Suitable for short distances.

• Township and Range System:

  • Uses a baseline with townships (north-south) and ranges (west-east).
  • Relies on longitude and latitude to create a grid system.
  • Common in the Midwest and Western USA.
  • Organized, clear land ownership, suitable for large populations.

Conclusion

• Practice identifying different settlement patterns and survey methods.
• Review questions are available for further practice.

These notes summarize key concepts from the lecture on settlement patterns and survey methods, helping with understanding different types of settlements and their implications on land use and community interactions.