Latitude and longitude is located at each corner of a map and at intervals along the map's borders. To find adjoining maps look for the names of the neighboring maps at the sides and corners of the topo map you are viewing, or look at the chart near the bottom right hand corner that lists the names of the surrounding maps. The USGS provides a list and description of topographic map symbols as well.

You can even use them to find out if there are any oil or gas wells on a particular property or to establish where certain pipelines, power lines, or railroads run.Īn index to symbols used to read topo maps is available in the Research Center. Topographic maps can also help either to establish the legal description of a piece of land or to determine where a piece of property is located by means of a legal description. Genealogists often employ topographs to locate cemeteries, churches and schools.Īccording to the United States Geological Survey, topographic maps often are used for engineering, energy exploration, natural resource conservation, environmental management, public works design, commercial and residential planning, and outdoor activities like camping, and fishing. Students can trace the path of a river, locate national parks, or search for particular landmarks. Hikers and vacationers often use topos to plan their travels. In addition to finding out the general lay of the land and the highest and lowest spots in an area, topographic maps can be used for other purposes. The USGS details some of the features found on topographic maps. The more detailed series, 1:24,000 and 1:100,000 provide section numbers. These maps also include the latitude and longitude, and on most topographic series, the township and range. Topo maps incorporate features such as contour lines, the magnetic north declination, roads, cities, railroads, pipelines, and fence lines, bodies of water, trees, wells, buildings, and cemeteries.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS), which publishes topographic maps, provides an explanation and history of these maps and information about the map-making process. With the use of contour lines, these maps effectively depict hills, mountains, plains, and valleys. Topographic maps (also called topo maps) are maps that illustrate the lay of the land.

Range and township system topo maps