Fall River County Soil Data
Fall River County, South Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Fall River County, South Dakota
Alkaline Soils of the Southwest
Fall River County features an average pH of 7.18, which is slightly higher than the state average and well above the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile is common in the semi-arid southwestern corner of the state. Taxonomic records for this area are not currently available.
Lighter Texture with Significant Sand
The soil contains 32.6% sand and 37.3% silt, with a lower clay fraction of 21.9%. This composition tends to be lighter and easier to work than the heavier clays found elsewhere in South Dakota. It provides a decent balance for native range plants and irrigated crops.
Rich Organic Matter, Moderate Capacity
The organic matter content is a robust 4.07%, which is significantly higher than the state average of 3.75%. However, the available water capacity of 0.171 in/in is slightly lower than the state average of 0.182 in/in. This means the soil is fertile but may require more frequent watering during droughts.
Dry Climate Drainage Patterns
Specific drainage classifications are not listed, but the lower water capacity suggests moisture moves through the profile relatively quickly. The sand and silt levels indicate that the soil is unlikely to stay waterlogged for long periods. Careful irrigation management is key in this environment.
Vibrant Gardening in Zone 5a
Fall River County enjoys a Zone 5a climate, allowing for a wider variety of plants than the northern counties. The soil score of 57.5 reflects the challenges of a drier climate, but the high organic matter is a major asset. Focus on xeric-scaping or irrigated vegetable beds for the best results.
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
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Fall River County have?
Fall River County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 37% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fall River County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fall River 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 Fall River County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Fall River County.
What crops or plants grow well in Fall River County's soil?
Based on Fall River County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Fall River County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Fall River County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Fall River County
Soil Verdict
Fall River County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Fall River County is somewhat warmer than the South Dakota statewide average. The zone range of 4b-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Fall River County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in South 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.