What was a requirement for GLO surveyors in addition to tracking bearings and distances?

The requirement for General Land Office (GLO) surveyors to note the type of land is significant in understanding land characteristics and use. By documenting the type of land, surveyors provided crucial information about the terrain, soil quality, and vegetation present, which influenced land management, usage plans, and eventual sales to settlers or the government.

This practice was not merely academic; it served practical purposes such as assessing land for agricultural suitability or identifying areas for timber production. Knowing the land type helped in creating accurate maps and records that guided future land use decisions. This documentation contributed to a more organized approach to land settlement and development in newly surveyed territories, ensuring that land was allocated appropriately based on its characteristics.