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Carbon County Soil Data

Carbon County, Wyoming

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

N/A

Texture

Unknown

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

N/A

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Carbon County, Wyoming

High-Desert Soil Characteristics

Carbon County's specific soil taxonomy is currently being mapped, though it follows the state's alkaline average pH of 7.18. This alkaline lean is quite high compared to the national median pH of 6.5.

Workability Varies by Landscape

Precise sand, silt, and clay percentages are not available for this high-altitude region. Soil workability changes significantly between river basins and mountain foothills, making local observation key for gardeners.

Rich Organic Matter Potential

County fertility metrics are limited, but the state average of 5.40% organic matter suggests high natural productivity. The state-wide average water capacity of 0.165 in/in provides a target for managing local soil moisture.

Planning for Local Hydrology

Drainage and hydrologic group data are currently limited for the county. Proper site assessments are vital for planning irrigation systems or building foundations in this diverse geological area.

Gardening in Zone 5a

Falling into Hardiness Zone 5a, Carbon County requires plants that can handle a brisk growing season. Focus on hardy staples like potatoes and radishes to ensure your garden flourishes in the high-desert air.

Soil Composition

Composition data not available for this county.

Soil pH

pH data not available for this county.

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: Unknown

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Soil Amendment Products

Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.

Browse Soil Amendments

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Carbon County have?

Carbon County's soil is classified as Unknown. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — sand percentage unavailable, silt percentage unavailable, and clay percentage unavailable. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.

Is Carbon County's soil acidic or alkaline?

pH data is not available for Carbon County.

What is the drainage class for Carbon County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Carbon County.

What crops or plants grow well in Carbon County's soil?

Based on Carbon County's Unknown texture, soil pH, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for a variety of crops depending on local conditions.

What USDA soil order is found in Carbon County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Carbon County is not currently available in our dataset.

Soil & Planting Advisory: Carbon County

Soil Verdict

Carbon County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.

Planting Guidance

A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. 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

Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.

Regional Context

Carbon County closely matches the Wyoming average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 4a-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.

Other Counties in Wyoming

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.