Brown County Soil Data
Brown County, Wisconsin
Avg pH
6.5
Texture
Muck
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
5.5%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Brown County, Wisconsin
Brown County’s Rich Histosol Identity
Brown County features a pH of 6.46, which is nearly identical to the national median of 6.5 and much higher than the Wisconsin average of 5.63. These are primarily Histosols, known for their dark, carbon-rich profiles.
A Heavy 'Muck' Composition
The dominant texture is classified as Muck, consisting of 42.3% sand and a substantial 15.0% clay. This higher clay percentage provides much better nutrient-holding capacity than the sandier northern counties.
Consistent Water for Crops
Organic matter is 5.53%, which is below the state average of 11.02% but more than double the national average of 2.0%. An available water capacity of 0.192 in/in closely follows the state average, offering stable growing conditions.
Very Poorly Drained Lowlands
The soil is very poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group B/D, meaning a high water table is common. This makes drainage management a priority for builders and large-scale farmers alike.
Prime Growth in Zone 5b
The warmer Zone 5b climate and near-neutral pH allow for a huge variety of plants, from tomatoes to fruit trees. If you can manage the wetness, this is some of the most productive soil in the state.
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
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Muck
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Brown County have?
Brown County's soil is classified as Muck. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 42% sand, 37% silt, and 15% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Brown County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Brown County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Brown County?
Brown County has a dominant drainage class of "Very poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Brown County's soil?
Based on Brown County's Muck texture, pH of 6.5, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Brown County?
Brown County's dominant soil order is Histosols. Histosols are organic soils (peatlands and bogs) with very high organic matter content. They form in wet, poorly drained environments.
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Other Counties in Wisconsin
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.