Nance County Soil Data
Nance County, Nebraska
Avg pH
6.8
Texture
Loamy fine sand
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Nance County, Nebraska
Mollisol Foundations in Nance County
Nance County’s soil is primarily composed of Mollisols, which are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world. The average pH is 6.82, slightly more alkaline than the national 6.5 median and the Nebraska 6.79 average. This near-neutral balance creates a welcoming environment for most garden vegetables.
Loamy Fine Sand with High Silt Content
The dominant texture is loamy fine sand, featuring 43.7% sand, 39.1% silt, and 16.4% clay. This nearly equal parts sand and silt mix provides a smooth workability that is rarely found in pure sand soils. The 16.4% clay provides enough 'glue' to help the soil hold its shape and retain nutrients.
Great Water Capacity with Base Fertility
Nance County boasts an available water capacity of 0.177 in/in, which is higher than the Nebraska state average of 0.172. Organic matter is exactly 2.00%, matching the national average but falling short of the state’s 3.32% benchmark. This high water capacity is a significant asset for sustaining crops during dry Nebraska spells.
Excessive Drainage in Group A Soils
The soil is classified as somewhat excessively drained and belongs to hydrologic group A, meaning it has high infiltration rates. This reduces the risk of flooding but means that fertilizers can leach into the groundwater if over-applied. It is a very stable soil for building foundations and other infrastructure.
Thriving in Zone 5b's Loamy Sand
The 5b hardiness zone and high water capacity make Nance County a great place for deep-rooted perennials and standard garden fare like tomatoes. Because the soil is somewhat excessively drained, you'll rarely worry about root rot. Start your seeds early and watch them flourish in these historic grassland soils.
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
Somewhat excessively drained
Water is removed rapidly. Soils may be droughty and have limited water-holding capacity.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loamy fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Nance County have?
Nance County's soil is classified as Loamy fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 39% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Nance County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Nance County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Nance County?
Nance County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Nance County's soil?
Based on Nance County's Loamy fine sand texture, pH of 6.8, and Somewhat excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Nance County?
Nance County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
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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.