NCEES Principles and Practice of Surveying Practice Exam

What does the term reliction refer to in land ownership?

1. The creation of dry land by the withdrawal of water

2. A sudden increase in land area due to flood

3. Continuous erosion of shorelines

4. The flooding of previously dry areas

The correct answer is: The creation of dry land by the withdrawal of water

Reliction refers specifically to the process whereby land is created due to the gradual withdrawal of water, leading to the emergence of dry land that was previously underwater. This phenomenon typically occurs in environments such as lakes, rivers, or coastal areas, where water levels decrease over time. As the water recedes, new land becomes exposed, and ownership of this land can be legally recognized because it is no longer submerged. This legal recognition is important for landowners and can have significant implications for property rights and the boundaries of waterfront properties. Reliction is a natural process distinct from sudden changes in water levels, such as flooding or erosion, which involve either an increase in water area or loss of existing land due to water action. Understanding these definitions helps clarify issues related to property rights and development in areas affected by changing water conditions.