The sample plat from BLM instruction manual for the survey of public lands.  For a link to the complete manual see our links.

As builders and developers, humans have a unique role in changing our environment. We now understand that every project, no matter how small, affects the greater whole, and how we can maintain a sustainable presence as human beings on a green and beautiful planet. As we gain a greater understanding of the function of the Earth's ecology, accurate resource mapping grows ever more important. Good land development requires an inventory of the biological, cultural and physical features of any given site. Harmonious design, all aspects of architecture, engineering and land planning depend on a clear understanding of what goes into creating a strong, lasting and healthful foundation. Before the concrete or the grading, a project begins with an idea, ideally as owners or managers we are not imposing our pre-conceptions on a site, but through an understanding of existing topography, weather conditions, biological life zones, esthetic considerations, soil types and other unique factors, we can enhance the natural creativity inherent in the ground and assist in the building of life.