Niobrara County Soil Data
Niobrara County, Wyoming
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
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 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Niobrara County
Soil Verdict
Niobrara 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
Niobrara County closely matches the Wyoming average hardiness conditions. 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 Niobrara 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.