Baraga County Soil Data
Baraga County, Michigan
Avg pH
4.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
55.1%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Baraga County, Michigan
Very Acidic Upper Peninsula Soil
Baraga County features an average pH of 4.26, significantly more acidic than both the state average and the national median of 6.5. This low pH is typical of northern forest soils and influences what can grow without intervention. Gardeners will likely need to apply lime to bring the pH up for most food crops.
Silt-Heavy Texture for Fine Pores
Unlike many sandy Michigan counties, Baraga is 70.9% silt, giving it a much finer, almost flour-like texture. This is balanced by 19.5% sand and a low 5.5% clay content. This silty composition can feel smooth to the touch and offers unique water-retention properties.
Extreme Organic Matter and Water Storage
The organic matter in Baraga is an impressive 55.10%, more than double the state average of 19.76%. This translates to a very high available water capacity of 0.393 in/in, nearly double the state benchmark. This soil is naturally structured to hold vast amounts of moisture for plant use.
Excessive Drainage Despite Silt
The soil is classified as 'Excessively drained' and falls into Hydrologic Group A. Even with the high silt and organic matter, water moves through this profile very quickly. This combination is rare and provides a unique environment that stays moist but never waterlogged.
Zone 5a Gardening with Native Power
Baraga's Zone 5a climate and silty, organic soil are ideal for cool-season greens and berries. The high water capacity means you can skip the hose more often during the short, bright summer. Start a garden and watch how the rich organic profile supports a lush landscape.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Baraga County have?
Baraga County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 71% silt, and 5% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Baraga County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Baraga County's soil has a low pH of 4.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Baraga County?
Baraga County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Baraga County's soil?
Based on Baraga County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 4.3, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Baraga County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Baraga County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Baraga County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Michigan
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.