Crook County Soil Data
Crook County, Wyoming
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
10.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Crook County, Wyoming
Exceptional Quality in the Black Hills
Crook County boasts an impressive soil score of 81.7, far exceeding the state average of 53.2. Its pH of 6.79 sits very close to the ideal national median of 6.5, making it remarkably versatile.
Balanced Texture for Superior Workability
The soil features a balanced mix of 34.1% sand, 35.1% silt, and 21.2% clay. This composition offers excellent drainage and enough clay content to hold onto essential nutrients throughout the season.
Richest Organic Matter in the State
At 10.05%, the organic matter here is nearly double the state average of 5.40% and five times the national average. The available water capacity of 0.199 in/in provides a superior moisture reservoir for crops.
Natural Strength and Stable Drainage
The high soil score indicates superior physical characteristics for both farming and stable construction foundations. This nutrient-dense soil naturally supports intensive agriculture with better moisture retention than neighboring counties.
Bountiful Growth in Zone 4b
Despite being in Hardiness Zone 4b, the elite soil quality makes Crook County a gardener's paradise. With water capacity nearly 20% higher than the state average, your pumpkins and squash will thrive here.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Crook County have?
Crook County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 35% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Crook County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Crook County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Crook County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Crook County.
What crops or plants grow well in Crook County's soil?
Based on Crook County's Loam texture, pH of 6.8, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Crook County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Crook County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Crook County
Soil Verdict
Crook County is in USDA hardiness zone 4b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -25°F. Soils here experience deep freeze cycles that can disrupt structure, kill shallow roots, and slow microbial activity for months each year.
Planting Guidance
Focus on cold-hardy perennials, native grasses, and conifers. The short growing window favors plants with low heat requirements. 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
Deep winter freezing can create soil heaving that pushes shallow-rooted plants out of the ground; add 3-4 inches of organic mulch each fall. Soil drainage is critical — frozen, waterlogged soil kills roots faster than cold alone. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Crook County is somewhat cooler than the Wyoming statewide average. The zone range of 4b-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Crook County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Wyoming
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.