Renville County Soil Data
Renville County, North Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
7.2%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Renville County, North Dakota
Entisols and Loam Dominance in Renville
Renville County features a pH of 7.22 and belongs primarily to the Entisols taxonomic order. These are younger soils that are highly productive when managed correctly. The alkalinity remains above the 6.5 national median, fitting the state's general soil profile.
Ideal Loam Texture for Agriculture
The dominant texture is loam, composed of 41.3% sand, 34.9% silt, and 20.7% clay. This specific ratio is highly prized by farmers because it provides the perfect balance of drainage and nutrient retention. It is one of the most workable and productive soil types in the region.
Top-Tier Organic Matter and Capacity
Organic matter is very high at 7.19%, significantly outperforming the state average of 4.69%. Furthermore, the available water capacity of 0.203 in/in is among the highest in the state. These factors combine to create a highly fertile environment for any crop.
Well-Drained Fields and Steady Hydrology
The soil is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group C. This means that while it handles water efficiently, it may have a slower rate of transmission when thoroughly wet. These qualities make it excellent for large-scale farming where water management is critical.
Optimal Growing in Zone 4a
An impressive soil score of 73.4 makes this some of the best land in North Dakota for canola and wheat. The 4a hardiness zone is also perfect for growing a wide array of garden vegetables. You have a massive advantage starting a garden in this premium loam.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Renville County have?
Renville County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 41% sand, 35% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Renville County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Renville County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Renville County?
Renville 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 Renville County's soil?
Based on Renville County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Renville County?
Renville 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Renville County
Soil Verdict
Renville County is in USDA hardiness zone 4a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -30°F. Soils here experience deep freeze cycles that can disrupt structure, kill shallow roots, and slow microbial activity for months each year.
Planting Guidance
Focus on cold-hardy perennials, native grasses, and conifers. The short growing window favors plants with low heat requirements. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Deep winter freezing can create soil heaving that pushes shallow-rooted plants out of the ground; add 3-4 inches of organic mulch each fall. Soil drainage is critical — frozen, waterlogged soil kills roots faster than cold alone. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Renville County closely matches the North Dakota average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 3b-4a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
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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.