Yankton County Soil Data
Yankton County, South Dakota
Avg pH
7.1
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Yankton County, South Dakota
Slightly Alkaline Soils Lead the State Average
Yankton County boasts a soil score of 62.7, which outpaces the South Dakota average of 61.2. The local pH levels average 7.10, placing it slightly above the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.05. While specific taxonomic orders are unlisted, the overall chemistry suggests a productive environment for regional agriculture.
High Silt Levels Define the Local Landscape
The soil profile consists of 49.3% silt, 28.2% clay, and 22.5% sand. This high silt concentration creates a smooth texture that facilitates better nutrient retention than sandier regions. Growers benefit from a mix that provides a stable structure for root development and crop stability.
Strong Organic Matter Fuels Growth Potential
Organic matter reaches 3.50%, which is significantly higher than the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.187 in/in also beats the state average of 0.182 in/in. These figures indicate a high potential for moisture retention and natural fertility in the field.
Functional Drainage for Diverse Land Use
Official drainage classes and hydrologic groups remain unclassified for this county in current datasets. However, the high silt and clay content suggests a soil that holds water longer than average sandy soils. Farmers and builders should verify local percolation rates before starting major projects.
Gardening Success in Zone 5a
Yankton County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, providing a hospitable climate for corn, soybeans, and hardy fruit trees. The combination of high organic matter and favorable water capacity makes this an ideal spot for a home vegetable garden. Start your planting season early to take advantage of these fertile South Dakota soils.
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: Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Yankton County have?
Yankton County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 49% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Yankton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Yankton 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 Yankton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Yankton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Yankton County's soil?
Based on Yankton County's Clay Loam texture, pH of 7.1, 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 Yankton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Yankton County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.