Ziebach County Soil Data
Ziebach County, South Dakota
Avg pH
7.2
Texture
Gravelly sandy loam
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Ziebach County, South Dakota
Rugged Entisols Define the Western Landscape
Ziebach County features young Entisols with a pH of 7.20, which is more alkaline than the 6.5 national median. The county’s soil score of 43.5 reflects a more challenging environment compared to the state average of 61.2. These gravelly sandy loams represent a raw, developing soil profile typical of the region.
A Gritty Mix of Gravel and Sand
The soil composition includes 32.8% sand, 37.3% silt, and 28.4% clay. This gravelly texture ensures the soil remains easy to work and resists compaction. However, the higher sand content means the soil may struggle to hold onto vital nutrients compared to heavier silt-clay blends.
Lower Water Capacity Requires Careful Management
Organic matter stands at 2.22%, hovering just above the national average but falling short of the 3.75% state average. The available water capacity of 0.153 in/in is lower than the state mark of 0.182 in/in. Plants in this soil often require more frequent monitoring for moisture stress during the summer months.
Rapid Drainage Through Hydrologic Group A
This soil is classified as excessively drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group A. Water moves through the profile very quickly, which prevents flooding but can lead to rapid drying. This classification is excellent for building foundations but requires irrigation for most intensive farming.
Hardy Planting in Zone 4b
Ziebach County is located in Hardiness Zone 4b, where drought-tolerant native grasses and hardy shrubs thrive. Home gardeners should focus on cool-season crops like cabbage and root vegetables that can handle the alkaline pH. With proper mulching to preserve moisture, these soils can support a productive and resilient garden.
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 sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ziebach County have?
Ziebach County's soil is classified as Gravelly sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 37% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ziebach County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ziebach 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 Ziebach County?
Ziebach 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 Ziebach County's soil?
Based on Ziebach County's Gravelly sandy loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Ziebach County?
Ziebach 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.
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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.