Gregory County Soil Data
Gregory County, South Dakota
Avg pH
7.1
Texture
Gravelly loam
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Gregory County, South Dakota
Alkaline Entisols Define the Landscape
Gregory County is characterized by gravelly loam soils belonging to the Entisols taxonomic order. With an average pH of 7.08, the soil is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5, though it aligns closely with the state average of 7.05.
Balanced Texture with Sandy Leanings
The soil composition consists of 38.5% silt, 33.1% sand, and 27.6% clay. This specific mix offers a stable foundation for agriculture, though the high clay content compared to neighboring counties can make the soil feel heavy when wet.
Managing Moderate Organic Matter levels
The organic matter content stands at 2.38%, which is lower than the state average of 3.75% but still above the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.157 in/in suggests that supplemental watering may be necessary during South Dakota's peak summer heat.
Fast Drainage and High Permeability
Classified as excessively drained and part of hydrologic group A, Gregory County soils allow water to infiltrate rapidly. While this prevents pooling and root rot, it also means nutrients can leach away more quickly than in denser soils.
Warmer Opportunities in Zone 5a
Gregory County enjoys a slightly warmer climate in hardiness zone 5a, expanding the range of possible perennials and garden crops. Despite a modest soil score of 48.2, careful mulching and soil amendments will yield a bountiful harvest.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Gregory County have?
Gregory County's soil is classified as Gravelly loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 39% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Gregory County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gregory County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Gregory County?
Gregory County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Gregory County's soil?
Based on Gregory County's Gravelly loam texture, pH of 7.1, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Gregory County?
Gregory 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Gregory 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.