Lincoln County Soil Data
Lincoln County, Washington
Avg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.9%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Lincoln County, Washington
Rich Mollisols define the plains
Lincoln County features an average pH of 6.38, sitting very close to the national median of 6.5. This taxonomic profile is dominated by Mollisols, which are world-renowned for their agricultural productivity and health.
The perfect silt loam balance
The soil is a heavy silt loam, composed of 50.3% silt, 24.4% sand, and 10.9% clay. This specific texture provides excellent workability for farming while maintaining enough structure to prevent erosion.
Solid organic foundations
The organic matter content is 5.90%, nearly triple the national average of 2.0%. While the water capacity of 0.163 in/in is below the state average, the overall soil score of 69.5 far exceeds the state's 58.1.
Steady drainage for the Palouse
These soils are classified as well drained and belong to hydrologic group B. This combination allows for moderate water infiltration, making the land exceptionally stable for both farming and construction projects.
Reliable harvests in Zone 6b
Hardiness Zone 6b supports robust wheat production and hardy garden vegetables. With a soil score that beats the state average by over 10 points, this is a premier location to cultivate your own food.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lincoln County have?
Lincoln County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 50% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lincoln County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lincoln County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lincoln County?
Lincoln County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Lincoln County's soil?
Based on Lincoln County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Lincoln County?
Lincoln County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lincoln County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Washington
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.