Renville County Soil Data

Renville County, North Dakota

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 41.3%
Silt: 34.9%
Clay: 20.7%
Loam

Soil pH

7.2pH
7.21866556271863
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

Group C — Moderate-High Runoff

Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.

Runoff potential:Moderate-High

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

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 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.

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.