Pierce County Soil Data
Pierce County, Nebraska
Avg pH
6.6
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Pierce County, Nebraska
Fine Sandy Loams and Mollisols
Pierce County is defined by its Fine Sandy Loam texture and the Mollisols taxonomic order, the world's most productive agricultural soil group. The average pH of 6.63 is very close to the national median of 6.5 and slightly lower than the Nebraska average of 6.79. This creates a balanced chemical environment that supports a healthy soil ecosystem.
A Gritty, Well-Aerated Mix
The soil contains 42.4% sand and 38.9% silt, with a smaller clay portion of 17.7%. This high sand content ensures excellent aeration and prevents the soil from becoming overly compacted or sticky. It is a highly workable soil that allows roots to penetrate deeply and easily.
Reliable Water Holding for Sandy Soil
Pierce County's organic matter of 2.43% is below the state average of 3.32% but exceeds the national benchmark of 2.0%. Despite its sandy nature, the soil maintains an available water capacity of 0.178 in/in, which is slightly better than the Nebraska average of 0.172 in/in. The overall soil score of 62.9 reflects this solid agricultural potential.
Excellent Natural Drainage
Classified as 'Well drained' and belonging to Hydrologic Group A, these soils have a high infiltration rate even when thoroughly wetted. This makes Pierce County an excellent place for gardening and farming as it minimizes the risk of waterlogged roots and standing water. Builders will find these soils favorable for construction due to their predictable drainage behavior.
Resilient Growth in Zone 5b
Falling within Hardiness Zone 5b, Pierce County is well-suited for hardy crops and native prairie grasses. The well-drained Mollisols are perfect for root vegetables like potatoes and carrots that thrive in sandier loams. It is a great time to start a garden and take advantage of these naturally aerated, productive 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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pierce County have?
Pierce County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 42% sand, 39% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pierce County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pierce County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Pierce County?
Pierce 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 Pierce County's soil?
Based on Pierce County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.6, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Pierce County?
Pierce 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.