Eddy County Soil Data

Eddy County, North Dakota

Avg pH

7.3

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

4.2%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Eddy County, North Dakota

Strongly Alkaline Soils in Eddy

Eddy County features an average pH of 7.28, which is more alkaline than both the state average of 7.18 and the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile is common in the central plains of the state where limestone-based minerals are prevalent. Plants that prefer acidic conditions may require specific amendments here.

High Sand Content for Fast Drainage

With 47.7% sand, Eddy County has one of the highest sand concentrations in the region, paired with 34.1% silt and only 17.7% clay. This coarse texture means the soil is very loose and unlikely to form heavy clods. However, it also means it may lose moisture and nutrients faster than heavier soils.

Resilient Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter stands at 4.19%, which is more than double the national average of 2.0% but slightly below the state average. The available water capacity of 0.182 in/in is also just under the North Dakota benchmark of 0.186. The high sand content limits water storage, but the organic matter helps maintain essential fertility.

Superior Aeration and Drainage

Specific drainage data is missing, but the 47.7% sand content suggests excellent drainage and high aeration. This soil is unlikely to stay waterlogged, making it ideal for building foundations and preventing root rot in sensitive plants. Gardeners will find this soil warms up very quickly once the spring sun hits.

Early Season Advantage in Zone 4a

Located in Zone 4a, Eddy County’s sandy soils allow for early spring planting because they drain and warm rapidly. Root vegetables like carrots and radishes will thrive in this loose, stone-free texture. Consistent mulching can help you retain the moisture that these sandy soils tend to lose.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 47.7%
Silt: 34.1%
Clay: 17.7%
Loam

Soil pH

7.3pH
7.27919965581725
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 Eddy County have?

Eddy County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 34% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Eddy County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Eddy County's soil has a pH of 7.3, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Eddy County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Eddy County.

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

Based on Eddy County's Loam texture, pH of 7.3, 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 Eddy County?

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

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.