Toole County Soil Data

Toole County, Montana

Avg pH

7.4

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

3.3%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Toole County, Montana

Rich Organic Matter in Toole

Toole County features an average pH of 7.37, which is slightly more acidic than the state average but still above the national median of 6.5. This pH level supports a wide range of nutrient availability for local agriculture.

A Balanced Mix for Reliable Crops

The soil contains 36.8% sand, 35.2% silt, and 26.0% clay. This relatively even distribution provides a stable structure that resists compaction while maintaining enough clay for essential nutrient storage.

Outperforming the State Average

With an impressive 3.31% organic matter, Toole far exceeds the state average of 2.54%. Its available water capacity of 0.159 in/in is just below the state norm, requiring careful moisture management during dry spells.

Sturdy Ground for High Plains Farming

While specific drainage classes are not listed, the 26.0% clay content suggests moderate drainage speeds. Farmers should monitor for surface crusting, which can occasionally occur in soils with this specific mineral balance.

Tough Plants for Zone 4a

Zone 4a features a short growing season that benefits from the county's high organic matter. Focus on hardy grains or fast-growing vegetables like radishes and spinach to thrive in these rich northern soils.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 36.8%
Silt: 35.2%
Clay: 26.0%
Loam

Soil pH

7.4pH
7.36729514583286
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Toole County have?

Toole County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 35% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Toole County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Toole County's soil has a pH of 7.4, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Toole County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Toole County.

What crops or plants grow well in Toole County's soil?

Based on Toole County's Loam texture, pH of 7.4, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Toole County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Toole County is not currently available in our dataset.

Other Counties in Montana

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.