Pawnee County Soil Data
Pawnee County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Water
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Pawnee County, Oklahoma
Neutral Soils in the Heart of Oklahoma
Pawnee County’s average pH of 6.09 closely mirrors the Oklahoma state average of 6.06. This is only slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, making it versatile for many different plants. It provides a balanced chemical environment that doesn't require extreme amendments for typical use.
Balanced Mix of Sand and Silt
The soil features a balanced blend of 36.6% sand and 38.8% silt, rounded out by 18.1% clay. This composition offers a good mix of drainage from the sand and nutrient retention from the silt. It is generally easier to work than the heavier clay soils found further south.
Steady Moisture in Moderate Soils
Organic matter sits at 1.61%, which is just under the state average of 1.72%. Despite lower organic content, the available water capacity of 0.162 in/in is higher than the state average of 0.144 in/in. This allows the soil to remain productive even when rainfall becomes erratic.
High Runoff Potential Challenges Builders
Like its neighbors, the county is dominated by hydrologic group D, indicating very slow infiltration rates. This means the soil sheds water quickly during heavy rains rather than absorbing it deeply. This characteristic can lead to flash flooding in low-lying areas or heavy erosion on slopes.
Success in Hardiness Zone 7a
Falling in zone 7a, Pawnee County is well-suited for winter wheat, sorghum, and hardy vegetables. The soil score of 44.7 suggests higher-than-average productivity for the state. Gardeners should take advantage of the good water capacity to grow a variety of summer crops.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Water
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pawnee County have?
Pawnee County's soil is classified as Water. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 39% silt, and 18% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Pawnee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pawnee County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Pawnee County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pawnee County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pawnee County's soil?
Based on Pawnee County's Water texture, pH of 6.1, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Pawnee County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pawnee County is not currently available in our dataset.
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Other Counties in Oklahoma
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.