Dawes County Soil Data
Dawes County, Nebraska
Avg pH
7.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Dawes County, Nebraska
Young Entisols and Alkaline pH
Dawes County features Entisols, which are geologically young soils with limited horizon development. The average pH of 7.35 is quite alkaline, significantly exceeding the national median of 6.5 and state average of 6.79.
Sandy Loam for Fast Drainage
With a 46.3% sand and 34.0% silt composition, this loam is relatively coarse and well-aerated. The 17.7% clay content is low enough to prevent major compaction issues but high enough to provide basic structural stability.
Low Moisture Reserves
The available water capacity is 0.160 in/in, which is lower than the Nebraska average of 0.172. While organic matter at 2.18% is better than the national average, the soil's ability to store water for long periods is limited.
Well Drained with Slow Infiltration
The soil is well-drained but belongs to hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration rates when the ground is thoroughly wet. This paradox means water can run off the surface quickly during flash rains instead of soaking in.
Rugged Beauty in Zone 5a
Native prairie grasses and drought-resistant shrubs thrive in this zone 5a climate. Gardeners should prioritize mulching and drip irrigation to overcome the lower water capacity and the alkaline pH of the native soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Dawes County have?
Dawes County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 34% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dawes County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dawes 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 Dawes County?
Dawes County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Dawes County's soil?
Based on Dawes County's Loam texture, pH of 7.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Dawes County?
Dawes County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
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Other Counties in Nebraska
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.