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Jackson County Soil Data

Jackson County, South Dakota

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

N/A

Texture

Unknown

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

N/A

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Jackson County, South Dakota

Exploring Local Soil Characteristics

Soil specifics for Jackson County are currently limited, though regional trends suggest a shift toward the state’s typical alkaline profile. Most soils in this part of South Dakota hover near the state pH average of 7.05, slightly above the national median.

Foundation for Water Movement

Numerical data for sand, silt, and clay percentages is unavailable for this specific area. These ratios are the primary drivers of how water and air move through the root zone for local flora.

Targeting State Fertility Benchmarks

Without site-specific organic matter data, we look to the state's 3.75% average as a target for soil health. The county’s agricultural success depends on maintaining these levels against the national average of 2.0%.

Evaluating Land Suitability

Official hydrologic and drainage classifications are missing from current soil records for Jackson County. Local land managers typically determine suitability for building and farming through careful on-site observation and historical knowledge.

Heat Tolerant Garden Crops

Gardeners in Zone 5a enjoy a favorable climate for a variety of South Dakota staples. Focus on heat-tolerant crops like peppers and tomatoes that can make the most of the long summer sun.

Soil Composition

Composition data not available for this county.

Soil pH

pH data not available for this county.

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: Unknown

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.

Soil Amendment Products

Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.

Browse Soil Amendments

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Jackson County have?

Jackson County's soil is classified as Unknown. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — sand percentage unavailable, silt percentage unavailable, and clay percentage unavailable. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.

Is Jackson County's soil acidic or alkaline?

pH data is not available for Jackson County.

What is the drainage class for Jackson County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Jackson County.

What crops or plants grow well in Jackson County's soil?

Based on Jackson County's Unknown texture, soil pH, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for a variety of crops depending on local conditions.

What USDA soil order is found in Jackson County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Jackson County is not currently available in our dataset.

Soil & Planting Advisory: Jackson County

Soil Verdict

Jackson 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

Jackson County is somewhat warmer than the South Dakota statewide average.

Other Counties in South Dakota

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.