NRCS Soil Surveys

Knowing what type of soils to expect before you start your operations can go a long way in saving you time and money. Soil surveys display areas with similar soils and identify the soil type with a letter or number code.  Some of the information you can obtain from a soil survey includes the following:

  • Erosion hazards (on and off roads),
  • Suitability for haul roads, skid trails, and landings,
  • Suitability for equipment operation, and
  • Soil rutting hazard.

This information, used in conjunction with topographic maps and aerial photos, can help determine the best layout of your operation and the need for BMPs. You can find USGS Soil Surveys for the county you are working in at:

Click the following links for examples of some of the information you can obtain from a soil survey about the Na soil code expressed in the image: