A distinctive land division system characterizes certain regions, particularly those influenced by French settlement patterns. This system features narrow parcels of land stretching back from a river, road, or other waterway. The shape provides each landowner with access to the transportation artery, as well as a variety of ecological zones within their plot. A classic example can be found along the St. Lawrence River in Quebec, Canada, where the landscape is marked by these ribbon-like landholdings.
This spatial arrangement offered several advantages, fostering a sense of community and shared resources, especially regarding access to water for irrigation and transportation. Historically, it facilitated efficient distribution of land amongst settlers, while also enabling collective defense against potential threats. The linear layout also promoted a relatively equal distribution of soil types and resources among the community members, minimizing potential inequalities in agricultural productivity.