Moody County Soil Data
Moody County, South Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Gravelly loam
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
3.8%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Moody County, South Dakota
High-Quality Entisols of Moody County
Moody County is dominated by Entisols, characterized by a gravelly loam texture. The average pH of 6.91 is near-neutral, sitting just below the state average of 7.05. This slight acidity compared to the state median makes it highly versatile for diverse agricultural uses.
Silty Loams with Excellent Workability
The soil mix consists of 48.1% silt and 25.5% clay, which provides a stable structure for root systems. With 26.4% sand, the gravelly loam texture allows for manageable workability and prevents excessive compaction. This blend ensures that the soil remains productive throughout the varying Dakota seasons.
Superior Organic Matter and Fertility
At 3.78%, the organic matter content exceeds both the state average of 3.75% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.196 in/in is among the highest in the region. These factors contribute to a robust soil score of 70.5, indicating elite growing potential.
Fast-Draining Gravelly Foundations
Classified as excessively drained, these soils move water through the profile very quickly. Belonging to Hydrologic Group A, the land has a low runoff potential and high infiltration rates. This is ideal for avoiding standing water but may require more frequent irrigation during dry spells.
Productive Gardening in Zone 4b
The gravelly loams in Zone 4b are excellent for root crops and heat-loving vegetables that prefer dry feet. Gardeners should focus on adding mulch to help the fast-draining soil retain surface moisture. With its high soil score, this county is a premier spot for a successful home 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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Moody County have?
Moody County's soil is classified as Gravelly loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 48% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Moody County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Moody County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Moody County?
Moody 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 Moody County's soil?
Based on Moody County's Gravelly loam texture, pH of 6.9, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Moody County?
Moody 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Moody County
Soil Verdict
Moody County is in USDA hardiness zone 4b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -25°F. Soils here experience deep freeze cycles that can disrupt structure, kill shallow roots, and slow microbial activity for months each year.
Planting Guidance
Focus on cold-hardy perennials, native grasses, and conifers. The short growing window favors plants with low heat requirements. 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
Deep winter freezing can create soil heaving that pushes shallow-rooted plants out of the ground; add 3-4 inches of organic mulch each fall. Soil drainage is critical — frozen, waterlogged soil kills roots faster than cold alone. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Moody County closely matches the South Dakota average hardiness conditions.
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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.