Billings County Soil Data
Billings County, North Dakota
Avg pH
7.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Billings County, North Dakota
Near-Neutral Foundation in the Badlands
Billings County has a pH of 7.10, making it one of the more neutral soil profiles in the state compared to the 7.18 average. It remains above the national median of 6.5. This balanced chemistry is ideal for a wide variety of native grasses and shrubs.
The Perfect Balance of Particles
The soil is remarkably balanced with 40.5% sand, 39.1% silt, and 20.3% clay. This distribution creates a loamy quality that supports plant roots without being too loose or too dense. It provides a stable and versatile medium for land management.
Above-Average Fertility and Storage
Organic matter levels reach 4.78%, beating the state average of 4.69% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.189 in/in also exceeds the state average of 0.186. These stats indicate a highly fertile soil that manages water efficiently.
Resilient Water Handling Capabilities
While specific drainage classes are not listed for this county, the high water capacity suggests a soil that acts like a sponge. This helps sustain vegetation during the dry periods common in the western Badlands. The particle mix supports good internal moisture movement.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 4b
Zone 4b allows for a longer growing season than many northern ND counties, making it great for hardy tomatoes and peppers. A soil score of 66.9 puts this county above the state average of 63.2. It is an excellent environment for anyone looking to cultivate the land.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Billings County have?
Billings County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 41% sand, 39% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Billings County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Billings County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Billings County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Billings County.
What crops or plants grow well in Billings County's soil?
Based on Billings County's Loam texture, pH of 7.1, 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 Billings County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Billings County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Billings County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in North Dakota
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.