Niobrara County Soil Data

Niobrara County, Wyoming

Avg pH

7.2

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.8%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Niobrara County, Wyoming

Niobrara’s Alkaline Prairie Soils

Niobrara County maintains an average soil pH of 7.22, slightly more alkaline than the Wyoming state average of 7.18. This level is much higher than the national median of 6.5, requiring careful selection of salt-tolerant plants.

A Balanced Grain Mix

The soil contains 48.0% sand, 28.9% silt, and 20.6% clay. This mixture provides a stable structure that is easier to work than heavy clay while still retaining some moisture.

Room for Organic Growth

Organic matter sits at 1.76%, which is below the national average of 2.0% and well behind the state average of 5.40%. The available water capacity of 0.145 in/in suggests the soil needs frequent, light watering.

Predicting Water Flow

Though formal drainage classes are not listed, the nearly 50% sand content typically allows for moderate water infiltration. This structure helps prevent the root rot often seen in heavier Wyoming soils.

Ready for Zone 5a Growth

With a Hardiness Zone of 5a, Niobrara County is perfect for growing root vegetables and hardy herbs. Enrich your soil with compost this spring to see your garden flourish.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 48.0%
Silt: 28.9%
Clay: 20.6%
Loam

Soil pH

7.2pH
7.22090600882364
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Niobrara County have?

Niobrara County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 29% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Niobrara County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Niobrara 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 Niobrara County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Niobrara County.

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

Based on Niobrara County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Niobrara County?

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

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.