HomeMy WebLinkAboutSoil & Water
."
"~', ...
. ,
...
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE
P. J. Box 279
Noblesville, Indiana
August 23, 1971
Carmel Tm.Jrt Board
Btll Piiittison, Ghairman
Oi t;,,i Building
C3rmel, I!'ldia na
SUBJtZCT: Proposed Park, Carmel Hills by Ben Bollman
Dear Board Members:
I have revie.Jed the proposed developmā¬.at plan for this p,Jrk site. Taking
inte aCCOlJ..l'}t the types of soils, the topography, and location, this is a
good si te for such a plan.
The soils on this tract are subject to flooding from Little Cool Creek.
This is a very good land use for soils in this posi t.ion. No permanent
buj.ldings should be constructed j.n this low l;yring 2rea because of the
flooding hazard.
The topography is quite undulating.
the remainder of the area should be
dra:i..nage. This may require di gging
gE.t enough soil to elevate the area
Follo1Jling excavation of the ponds,
leveled so that there is good surface
th~) ponds a little larger in order to
to accom?lish good drai nagG.
These poorly drained soils on thi s tract have a hi~h i\'ater table. Duri.ng
periods of the year this water table raises and in the low lying areas
outcrops on the surface. Through careful landscaping and grading, some
of these problems can be overcome.
A park or this type is definitely needed in tl1is area, Along with being
a good land use, it w-111 provide a lot of recreation for th s people in
tha t area.
I am defini tel.;r in fa'lOr of the ponds. The ponds wi 11 serve a dua 1 pur-
pose. Fishing is naturally the concern of the people, but. to me the
ponds are more important because of flood storage. These ponds, if
properly designed, can definitely assist in controlling flooding in
this area. These ponds can store a tremendous amount of runoff. I
estimate the size of t,he t;./o ponds to be somewhere between 2~ to 3 acres.
There should be ample water to keep the ponds full. It is my under-
standing that the storm sewers idll outltSt into the ponds. This is good
providing the outlet of the sewers are properly protected to prevent
erosion and stabilization.
~-
--
~
"".
Even though this area ~.nll assist in the flooding problemJ it is still
my' suggestion that Little Cool Creek be cleaned up. The dead trees,
and debris should be removed and the area properly seeded.
If you approve of this propos8d plan, the Soil Gonservatton Service
through the: Soil and Tdater Conservation District I,rill be glad to assist
the developer and his engineer in the proper development and implemen-
tation of this plan.
SincerelYJ
J~.
Tom SChellenbergd
District Conservationist
TS/bs
cc: 1,~eihe Eng.
~~SCS,;':ZB (10-62J CONSERVATION PLAN MAP
....~;.l..~~. UNITED STATES DE:RT;E.NT D;O~~::~~~:~~h. SD: CONSERVATION SERViCE
.....-~~ --.-f1./a/YXU.J!Z6~YU r.'t:P-?~~1
=' 'OUR STRE. GTH =. Soil Conservation Distric~ (l
- OUR .SOll{1-': STRE.~_, n 7' N I ~7 /J ' ~ I ) /
Owner ,!j;b~nd NdZu ( ~/JL2...LeJ 7Z;;Llk-V . Plan No. Oate'j--:j- ~/ _.
Operator " SC;;J,le 170170 sea /e Acres
/ r; Appr.o~imate
_ ~-/CbJ'")~I..-! f;..r.J '7"-'~7.LL.L~../Y1-aJ Photo No.
County . ~; .I,',. State
,,,.f /j. ~."" .-.:f //. i 'f ~~.
. '~., WIT f..AI '-'~t'J. ,~-~"
4(1)<}''
. .~~ .
i /\ /[h{
~J ''\v
<f4~~
i:i f 0
rt'<.J v
i~ "oj t!~~v
\ . ~O\
;j!\'i.
('.
~v
f\~
:\'Y\
f\
\.:
\
i""
"- _''0
___,-iJ"
.J
)' // G P
~
'\
;
1
1=
i--
I
T
L
L
t~
L
. '-J
i- ~
I I ~~
I J- 0
/' II t, Cy
1 ....Ll
I . \ "-
I I f (I'
I ) I l '~
/ \ r
/ / , I
! . /,1 I I
I I ~____,~,=)_/,-'-"'--'~_"',-","_A_AJZ-zL/~~ t
1- - "'\ (' . ~ ,J \_ L
I -.. - - 'J -1'15nq;. "Yil"''LW //~/a~ ~ . I
I . ,f
I! (, J' . /' . j r
_ !J/15/5f1/v3 o!]{~r rne'rt/5 +
\ L
; L--_~
-' _q-!. 7Pd dJsl/ ._~~._~___L
T
:
i 'I a
!-~,.,~ ~
: f.l~"~~" . -1tf.!- -~
J ~. ~ ~ . *"!. l:I f"
f / ~;h~leJ ~ t~ .
, , . ,
"'~)
-i,. ~
'\. '
,.');/'. .
/\j
0',
I
I \
1 L -- --.---"
,
l~- .~
I
I I
I
I
I
~ t
i ~+~iv~~j _ ~
1". j l~ y. ..." .' '\\'.'
"~ t ~_ ~.f) f,c;~
,., I
" ,
.:.. -,.<'>..1\
- ~-~
"'\ \
I I
//
/
~'
GPO :.1":630-6613828
._....:". .1Ii,i
~
SO-:"..
~
...
,.a.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
SOIL CONSERVATION SERNICE
P.O. Box 279
Noblesvil1e, Indiana
April 7 ~ 1971
l\I.iyrneth H. Anderson, Cha.irman
Carme11....clay Plan Co!llID.ii:ssi on
R.R. 2, &:l.x 3h4D
Carrue1, Indiens 46032
St1BJEOTll Cannel Hills (Flair-North)
"
Dear Plan Com.1Ii.s5iQIl J-iembers:
Soils:
There. is no Soil map attached becal.LSethismole area is a low flood
plain soil.!t is either OenessGeO.r Eel soU depending apon ita
elevation. &thof these are f'1Qod. plain soils and subject. to flooding
fromll ttle Cool C:reek. !~reme care will have to be taken t\lhen in...
etalling foot.ers, etc." oGca.use of the SQil condi tiona that exists..
Wa ter Ma'nagement:
This llbole 8r&sis. subject to flooding. Weihe Engineering Company
forwa:rd~ci a copy of the l~tter they received from RooEtrt F. Jackson..
Chief' of Division of \-Jater" .Indiana :Qepartment of Natural Besourc~s.
I fully ooncur 1rltb their recommendations and comments.
Sel's ming :
I suggest. that they proVide a screen barrier along their east property
line next to the Menon railroad trackGl. Railroad trneks usually are
unattractive. Three ~ows of ~mite or ~ed pine or other decorati~e plant-
ingscan be l.1.S'ed for this purpo.se. 'l'b.ee.~8t i~. "iIW7I' nominal-..$l.;O/lOO
tr~s or $1$..00/1000 trees. An application blank c.anbe secured from
thisaff'ic(;l..
Erosi,on Control during ;Development:
This area :'presep.t1y~~bas:..,a:,good w.eedand grass eover; but it they follow
the recommandatiQn:s of Indiana Department of Nattiral Resources.. there
will have to be a Iota! fill mat~:rial 1l1<:l~ed onto the site. As soon as
the fill is lev~led~the uhole area should be 'seeded with 4 lb. ann.ual
ryegrass!lOOO sq. ft.. to' proteet the soil from washing .into littlo 0001
Creek and avoiding a pollution problem.,
",-
..
<;;1--
-<1'
~poti.leQ.ca:r;1il~l;Park.llr9und~
I d16CUS$ed this m th Jert']! Sarrll'presldsnt of Hamilton 6o:unty Park
Biil'ardj antj he stated tJ'!,at to date thel"e has not been M agreement made
CQ.ncamins this part ot th~ tract. '.l\1t:'rsbae be~ abrtef dlecussilon
ootween the Goun.ty ~;srk :Boa-rdan d the olllner.
Li ttleCoo'l Cl'eek~
This ot'$sk Is in difre n~oo of maintenance. fhe et:t'(l$! is elQggad Witb,
tree$ and other deibriS whiQb is hampering the flow or Write.X" in the strea.'U.
ThG 'trash and denrisShould be :t'Gti)OV"IRQ from the bottlJ/:m. and ed..de$lop@s,
aiadthat same $rea $eeded to. ,30 lb"t'eacue gra.S8 1;HilJ:" acre to con~l
e1irosion on the bar:ks.
I certainly feel thatr1r. fJQl~man and Weih~ Elj.gineeri.ng~any are trying
to dQ a good job here" It is a diffioult t:l.i'tuat;tonbeaause of the area
thaT are in.
Respectfully yQlJ1"Sj
j i; j) I
> _./1 A' '/ /'1 .f
~ < .' .:.,= "..a.,..,.
PP-;.j'l/... ~ M. /. ]I^"', :e V't~.....- .
c;:,;;:.."'-- , . .. ,kT ,.". t, i
'lorm Schel1 en.berger,
District Gop.8 ervatiomst
TBtbs
ce I Weihe l:!;ngines:r1ng C:o.
Bldg. C91ll!n. Honl$1:" Gradlf.'l
~
IN-I02a
C3 /68 )
EXPLANATION OF THE SOIL MAP
(for non-agricultural uses)
Your land is the foundation of your conservation plan. Plan it within its
limitations and treat it according to its needs. The Soil Conservation Service
and your Soil and Water Conservation District will help you use this information
to develop a conservation plan for your land.
The soil map shows important facts about your land. This information should
help you decide on the land use and treatment needs.
Degree of Limitations
slight
Relatively free of limitations or with limitations that are
easy to Qvercome.
moderate
Limitations need to be ~ecognized; can be overcome with
correct planning, proper treatment and good management.
t~~, , ", ,.~,
~~.{~~~. \~ .'
Limitations are severe enough to make use questionable;
careful planning, proper treatment and above average
management are needed.
Extreme measures are needed to overcome limitations;
usage is generally not practical.
Lvery sev.ere J
Mapping
Symbol
and Soil
Series
Land Use
LeI
I~..'~~. ""
g'~ it-
~-"'''''-..~.-
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
Il
II
II
II
II
SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE - USDA
Mapping symbols on the map show the soil type, slope~~, and erosion~H.
An example:
Slope (in per cent)
A
B
C
0- 2
2- 6
6-12
nearly level
gently sloping
sloping
D
E
F
12-18
18-25
25-50
strongly sloping
steep
very steep
Degree of Erosion
o - No apparent
1 - Slight
2 - Moderate
3 - Severe
~ - Very Severe
1~ No slope letter means "A" slope.
1H~ No erosion figure means 1l01l erosion.
Kinds of Soils on this Land
Description of Soils and Explanation of lldegree of limitations"
USD,I,-SCS.LIHCOLI'l, HUR. 1961
.-
GENESEE SERIES
ESTIMATED PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
IN-226-B 5/18/67
;I> of material Ava ilab 1.
Classification llassillll sieve Perllleability vater Soil Shrink-
No. 10 No. 40 No. 200 inches caplcity relction awe 11
USDA Texture Unified AASHO 2.0 ram. .42 nun. 0.074 ram. per hour in./in. pH potential
Surfece layer o 1,,0 8 inches;
sil t. lo"m or loam: ML or CL 1.-4 or 100 90-100 75-85 0.63 - 2.00 0.17 - 0.2C 6.6-7.) Low
1.-6
fine "andy loam: ML or SX A-/j 100 70-80 45-55 2.00 - 6.30 0.12 - 0.1 6.6-7.) Low
Subsoil 8 to 32 inches;
silt loam and/or loam ML or CL 1.-4 or 100 90-100 75-85 0.63 - 2.00 0.17 - 0.2C 7.1..-8.4 Low
1.-6
Underlying 0.17 - 0.2C
ma teria 1 32 to 60 inches; ~[, 1.-4 100 70-80 55-70 0.63 - 2.00 7.1..-8.1.. Low
stratified material
consisting of loam, silt
loam and Mndy loam
INTERPRETATIONS OF ENGlNEERIlIG PROPERTIES
Suiu.bilit.v as a source of:
Topsoil Good ; subject to stream flooding.
Sand and gra....el Not suitable.
- . ~ .r':~'" -"'" .... --
~::::'l and substratum: fair to poor - fair to poor .~.. --~
Road subgrlde an~1 shear strength Bnd compaction; medium to high
highway fills comoressibili ty: 10'. shrink-swell; fair stabil it.v. -
Soil~features affect~n"use f~" . _.- -- - -=-=--"1..- - -
,-
location \f-. -- ..
Highway Subject. to flooding and frost heave. :)
'- ... , - ~. seasonal high wat~
Foundations for ~( Fair lo poor shear streneth; low shrink-swell; medilJm to high compressibility;
low buildings table; sub.;ect, to flooding.
\ - -~- ~ ~~.
Pond reservoir Subject. t.o flooding; moderate to SlOW seepage. -
areas
DaMS, dikes, levees Subsoil and subslratum: fair stability; fal: to poor shear strength and compaction; :noderate to low
and embankments permeability when comoacted' medium to hign compressibility: fair resistance lo oi::>1n".
Waterways Generally nol ne~ded, level topography.
Agricultural Not needed - well dr.ined.
draina"e
Terraces .nd Not needed, level topography.
diversions
QNS.FQR..I:iOHE.Ul!BllW.~_ ...--,_
SEVL1E - subject to occasional flooding.
Residential develop-
ment without SEVERE - subjecl lo occasional flooding; estimaled percolalion rate faster than 4, minutes/inch.
public sewer
Buildings for light
industrial, commer- SEVERE - subject to occasional flooding.
cial and public use
l/ The soil is evaluated only to a depth of 5 feet or less. Soils are rated on the basis of four classes of soil limitations:
~light _ relatively free of limitations or limitations are easily overcome; Moderate - limitations need to be recognized,
ut cen be overcome with good msnage~nt end careful design; Severe - li~tations are severe enough to make use
questionable; Very Severe - extreme measures are needed to overco;ne the lilnitations and usage generally is unsound or
not practical.
5, L-2579D-B
1I';A.:J~..U.(Olll. 111111_ III'
-Map Symbols
GENESEE
Soil Series
INDIANA
Date
1/58
SOIL INTERPRETATIONS
IN-226-A
5/18/67
BRIEF SOIL DESCRIPTION: The Genesee series consists of deep, well drained soils that have a medium Or moderately coarse
textured surfece layer end medium textured subsoil, They developed in alluvium and occupy neorly level flood plain. along
streoms and rivers. The native vegetation was mainly mixed hardwood trees, Genesee soils are low in organic matter and
heve a high available moisture capacity. They have moderate permeability and runoff is slow or very slow. These soils
ore subject to occasionel flooding.
INTERPRETATIOtIS FOR CROPL.UID PASTURE AND WOODLA.ND
" -,
Cropland - general and Well suited for growing corn, soybeans, small grain and grasses and legumes for hay and pasture.
speciality farm crops Crops are subject to damage during periods of occasional overflow.
Pesture Well sui!.ed for growing alfalfa, red clover, brome grass, tall fescue and orchard grass.
Woodland Important wood crops: tulip poplar.
Well 5ui tad for planting: black locust, white pine, black walnut.
Lsnd capability unit and Yield predictions,
Slope Capability Corn -bu. "oybeans - b Wheat-bu. Oats -bu. Legume-tirass \ nay) Pasture lAUll.)
Class Eros. unit A B A B A B A B A B tOM A B
A 0 I 'ro 115 25 1,0 32 4S -- -- 2.5 U.S 4.1 8.5
LIMITATIONS Fffi WILDLIFE ]j
Openl.nd wildlife SLIGHT
Woodland wildlife SLIGHT
VERY SEVERE: well drained; subject to occasional flooding; limitations: very severe for wetland
Wetland wildlife food and cover plants; shallow water developments end ponds; moderete for growing grein and seed
crops,
LIMITATIONS Pm RECREATION !/
Cottegee and SEVERE - subject to flooding.
utility buildings
Tent and camp SEVERE - subject to flooding.
tra iler sites
Picnic areas, parks and MODERATE - subject to flooding.
extensive play areas
Playground, athletic
field and intenaive SEVERE - subject to flooding.
play areas
Bridle paths, nature MODERATE - subject to flooding.
and biking trails
GDlf course fairways MODERATE - subject to flooding.
UNlTFD STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
SOIL CONSmVATION SmVICE in cooperation with
PlJRIlUF: UNIVERSITY AGRICULTURAL ElPERIlmlT STATION
National Cooperative Soil Survey-USA
5, L-2579o-A
EEL SERIES
ESTIMATED PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
IN-226-B 5/18/67
,. of m.ateri:ll Available
Classification pas9il\ll; sieve Permeabili ty water Soil Sbrink-
No. LO :;0. 40 No. 200 inches capacity reaction evell
USDA Texture Unified AASHO 2.0 mm. .42 mm. 0.074 mm. per hour in./in. pH potenthl
Surface layer o lo 10 inches; M1 or CL A-4 Or 100 95-100 a5-95 0.63 - 2.00 0.17 - 0.20 6.3-7.3 Low
silt loam Or loam A-6
Subsoil 10 lo 30 inches: ML or CL A-4 or 100 95-100 65-85 0.63 - 2.00 0.17 - 0.20 6.3-7.3 Low
silt loam Or light silty A-6
clay loam
Underlying
material 30 ~o 60 inches; ML, OL A-I, 100 70-90 40-80 0.63 - 2.00 0.17 - 0.20 7.3-8.4 Low
st~atified material or SH
including silt loam, sil ty
clay loam, fine sandy loam
INTERPRETATIOOS OF ENGINEERING PROPERTIES
Suitabilit as a source of:
Topsoil
Surface: good; subject to stream flooding.
Sand and gravel
Not suitable.
""-~~:".' ~,~-.
.~,...~.
''"'
Road
hi
- fair to poor shear strengtb and compaction: medium to high
. .
.__~~~~~~~~~'tt:L~"<J'<...~...;."t..;~..~-,-,...~,"",..
j
subject to frost heave.
"'~~~.Y~!"'""'" _'
_4_~
low shrink-SHell: medium to high compressibility; seasonal high wate "",
Pond reservoir
areas
Subjec l lo
~~"''''''''-~ri!.
ooding; seasonally high water table; moderate to slow seepage.
Dams, dikes, levees
and embankments
Subsoil and substratum: fair stability; fair to poor shear strength and compaction; moderate to low
per~eabilit acted' medium to bi h com ressibilit . fair r 8i"te t
Waterways
Generelly not needed; level topography.
Agricultural
draina e
Subject to flooding; moderate permeability.
Terrace. and
diversions
Nol needed, level topography.
L
OME URBAN USES -
,,>>>,,
" 8sidential develop-
ment wi"h SEVERE - subject to flooding.
public sewer
Residential develop-
ment without SE'VERE - subject to flooding. Estimated percolation rate fasler than 45 minutes/inch.
public sewer
Buildings for light
industrial, comlll8r- SEVERE - subject to flooding.
cial and public use
!/ The soil is evaluated only to a deptb of 5 feet or less. Soil. are rated on the basis of four claases of aoil limitationa:
Slight - relatively free of limitations or limitations are easily overcome; Moderate - limitations need to be recognized,
but can be overcome with good manage~nt and careful design; Severe - limitations are severe enough to make uae
questionable; Very Severe - extreme measures are needed to overcome the limitation. and usage generally i8 unaound or
not practical.
5, L-2579o-B
U.ll.lI'.(;.'Ll~COLIt. 'un. nil
Map S;yl'Ibole
EEL
Soil Series
INDIANA
Date
1/68
SOIL INTERPRETATIONS
IN-226-A
5/lB/67
BRIEF SOIL DESCRIPTION: The Eel series consists of deep, moderately well drained soils that have a medium textured surface
layer and a mainly medium textured subsoil. They developed in alluvial deposits and occupy nearly level areas along
streams and rivers. The native vegetation was mainly mixed hardwood trees. Eel soils are medium or low in organic matter
and have a high available moisture capacity. They have moderate permeability and runoff is very slow. Occasional flooding
is a hazard.
INTERPRETATIONS FOR CROPLAND PASTURE AND WOODLAND
J.
Cropland - general and Well suited for growing corn, soybeans, small grain and grasses for hay and pasture. Crops are
speciality farm crops subject to damage from occasional flooding.
Pasture Well suited for growing alfalfa, red clover, brome gr8ss, 'tall fescue, Bnd orchard grass.
Woodland Important wood crops: tulip poplar.
Well suited for planting: black locust, white pine, black walnut, tulip poplar.
Land caDabil1tv unit and Yield oredictions:
-Slope {;apalliltt,. Corn -bu. Soybeans -bu. Wheat-bu. Oats -bu. Legume-urass (hay) -Vasture (A1lllT
Claes Eros. unit A B A B A B A B A B tons A B
A 0 I 70 115 25 40 32 45 -- -- 2.5 4.5 4.1 8.5
LIMITATIONS Fm WILDLIFE )j
Openland wildlife SLIGHT
Woodland wildlife SLIGHT
VERY SEVERE - moderately well drained; subject to flooding; l1mi tations - very severe for wetland
Wetland wildlife food and cover plants; severe for shallow water developments and ponds; moderate for growing
grass and seed crops.
LIMITATIONS FCR RECREATION )j
Cottages and SEVERE - subject to flooding.
utility buildings
Tent Ind Clmp SEVERE - subject to flooding.
trailer sites
Picnic areas, parks and MODERATE - subject to flooding.
extensive play aress
Playground, athletic
field and intensive SEVERE - subject to flooding.
PlaY areas
Bridle paths, nature MODERATE - subject to flooding.
and hiking treils
Golf couree fairways MODERATE - subject to flooding.
tmTTED STATES DEPAR'w.ENT OF AGRICULTURE
SOIL OONsrnVATION SERVICE in cooperation with
PUROOE UNIVERSITY AGRICULTURAL F.XPERIHF.NT STATION
National Cooperative Soil Survey-USA
5, L-2579Q-A
7'~
'f1l
USE AND EXPLANATION OF SOIL INTERPRETATION SHEETS - INDIANA
April 1968
The interpretation 5heet(s) provide information on the interpretations of soila for cropland, pasture, and woodland;
wildlife: recreation; estimated physical and chemical properties; engineering properties; and some urban USeS.
Some interpretations are expressed in terms of the degree of limitation. Slight, moderate, severe, or very severe
are the four degrees of limitations used and are defined as follows:
Slight-
relatively free of limitations or limitations are easily overcome.
Moderate-
limitations need to be recognized, but can be overcome with good management and careful design.
Severe-
limitations are severe enough to make use questionable.
Very Severe-
extreme measures are needed to overcome the limitations and usage generally is unsound or not practical.
THE INTERPRETATIONS WILL NOT ELIMINATE THE NEED FOR ON-SITE STUDY, TESTING, AND PlANNING OF SPECIFIC SITES FOR THE USE
AND DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION FOR SPECIFIC USES, THE INTERPRETATIONS CAN BE USED AS A GUIDE TO PLANNING MORE DETAILIID
INVESTIGATIONS AND FOR AVOIDING UNDESIRABlE SITES FOR AN INTENDED USE. BY USING THE SOIL MAP AND INTERPRETATIONS, IT
IS POSSIBLE TO SElECT SITES THAT Hll.VE THE LEAST LIMITATIONS FOR AN INTENDED USE.
MANY SOMEWHAT POORLY AND POORLY DRAINED SOILS HAVE SEVERE OR VERY SEVERE LIMITATIONS IN THEIR NATURAL CONDITION FOR
SOME LAND USES. THESE SAME sons, WHEN DRAINED ARTIFICIALLY, MAY HAVE ONLY A SLIGHT LIMITATION Fffi THESE SAME LAND
USES. MODERN EQUIPMENT AND KNOWLEDGE MAKE IT POSSIBLE TO OVERCOME MOST OF THE LIMIT.~TIONS OF SOILS FOR MANY LAND
USES. THE DEGREE OF LIMITATION AND THE LOCATION OF THE SOIL WILL HELP .DETERMINE THE PRACTICABILITY OF DEVELOPING
THE SOIL FeR THE INTENDED USE. .NO CONSIDERATION WAS GIVEN IN THESE INTERPRETATIONS TO THE SIZE AND SHAPE OF SOIL
AREAS, NOR TO THE FATTERN THEY FORM WITH OTHER SOILS ON THE LANDSCAPE. FOR EXAMPLE, SOME VERY DESIRABLE SOIL AREAS
ARE TOO SMALL IN SIZE OR TOO IRREGULAR IN SHAPE, OR THEIR OCCURRENCE WITH lESS DESIRABLE SOILS FORM3 A PATTERN TOO
COMPLEX TO BE UTILIZED FeR THE INTE~llED USE. ALTHOUGH NOT CONSIDERED IN THE INTERPRETATIONS, THESE ITEMS SHOUlD
INfLUENCE THE FINAL SELECTION OF.A SITE.
WHEN THE INTERPRETATION SHEETS ARE USED IN CONNECTION WITH DELINEATED SOIL AREAS ON SOIL MAPS, THE INFORMATION
PERTAINS TO THE DOMINANT SOIL .FCiR 'WHICH THE SOIL AREA IS NAMED. OTHE:R SOILS, TOO SMALL IN EXTENT TO MAP OUT, MA,Y
OCCUR WITHIN THE: SOIL MAP AREA. THE INTERPRETATIONS ORDINARILY DO NOT APPLY TO THE INCLUDED SOILS. MORE DETAILED
STUDIES ARE REQUIRED IF Sl".ALL, SPECIFIC SITES ARE TO BE DEVELOPED OR USED WITHIN A GIVEN SOIL AREA. FeR EXAMPLE,
A SOIL ]flAP AREA BEARING THE NAME I-lIAMI SILT LOAM, 2 TO 6 PERCENT SLOPES, ALSO CAN INCLUDE SMALL UNMAPPABLE AREAS OF
OTHER SOILS, SUCfi AS CROSBY AND BR OOKST ON , THE: INTERPRETATIONS APPLY ONLY TO THE: MIAMI PART OF THE DELINEATED SOIL
AREA, AND Nar TO '!'HE ENTIRE SOIL AREA.
EXPLANATION OF THE INTERPRETATIONS IN SEQUENCE AS ARRANGED ON TIiE INTERPRETATION SHEET(S)
Brief Soil Description- a brief description of the soil series is provided to define it in general terms.
Cropland- listed are the major kinds of general and for some soils, a few speciality crops that are suited. Properties
of the soil, such as erosion hazard, wetness limitation, climate, slope and general fertility are items considered
in the evaluation of the soil.
Pasture- listed are the major kinds of legumes and grasses that are suited. Properties of the soil such as erosion
hazard, weLness limitation, climate, slope, and general fertility are items considered in the evaluation of the soil.
Woodland- listed are the major kinds of wood crops that are suited. Available water capacity, depth to root restricting
layers, and natural drainage are major factors in determining the limitation of the soil.
Land Capability Unit- indicates the degree of'the hazard or limitation from Class I to VIII for the use of the soil for
agriculture and the nature of soil limitation; e - erosion; s - root zone limitations; w - wetness,
Yield Predictions- given in terms of "A" Or average level of management and "B" or high level of management. The two
levels of management are defined as follows'
"A" (average)- average management includes the use of limestone and fertiliz.ers, but s oil reaction and a"ailable
nutrients are often inadequate or not properly balanced for best crop yields. Some erosion control and drainage
improvements have been made, but more are commonly needed. Cropping systems, plant populations, organic matter
supplies, and soil physical condi.ti.ons may be below level, needed fDr optimum crop yields. Cultural practices,
such as tillage, use of good adapted seed, and control of weeds, diseases, and harmful insects may not be adequate.
More attention should be given to timely application snd the proper combination of improved practices.
"B" (higb)- high level management includes the application of effecth-e practices adapted to different crops,
soils, and climatic condition,. Such practices include providing far adequate drainage, protection from flooding,
erosion and runoff control, optimum tillage, and planting the correct kind and amount of high quality seed.
Control of weeds, disellses and harmful insects are other important considerations. Favorable 30il reacti on and
optimum levels of available phosphorus and potassium need to be maintained for various crops by applying these
fertilizers according to soil tests. High level management also includes efficient use of crop residues, barnyard
manure and/or green manUre crops. Cropping systems designed to control erosion, maintain optimum soil organic
matter levels, and facilitate the production and utilization of nitrogen in soils are also important.
The yield information, updated through 1967, is based on the North Central Regional Research Publication 166,
titled "Productivity of Soils in the North Central Region of the U. S."
LIMITATIONS FOR WILDLIFE
-2-
Openland Wildlife- includes birds and msmmals that normally frequent cropland, pasture, meadows, and areas overgrown with
gra sse", herbs, and shruhby grO'.;th. Examples of this kind of wildlife are: quail, pheasants, meadowlarks, cotton
tail rabbits and fox. Habitat element" evaluated in terms of the degree of limitations are: (a) grain and seed crops;
(b) gra8ses and legumes: (c) wild herbaceous upland plants; (d) hardwood woody plants.
Woodland Wildlife- includes birds and mammals tbat normally frequent wooded areas of hardwood trees and shrubs, coniferous
trees and shrubs, or mixtures of such plants. Examples of this kind of wildlife are ruffed grouse, woodcocks, gray
and red squirrels and white tail deer. Habitat elements evaluated in terms of the degree of limitations are:
(a) grasses and legumes; (b) wild herbaceous upland plants; (c) hardwood woody plants; (d) coniferous woody plants.
Wetlend Wildlife- includes birds and mammals that normally frequent wet areas as ponds, streams or ditches, marshes and
swamps. Examples of this kind of wildlife include ducks, rails, herons, mink and raccoon. Habitat elements evaluated
in terms of the degree of limitations are: (a) wetland food and cover plants; (b) shallow water developments;
(c) excavated ponds; (d) grain and seed crops.
LDIITATIONS FOR RECREATION
Cottages and Utility Buildings- these ratings apply to seasonal or year-round cottages, washrooms and bathrooms, ,picnic
shelters and service buildings. Factors considered are: wetness and flood hazard, slope, rockiness and stoniness
and depth to hard 'bedrock. Additional items that must be considered are: suitability for septic tank filter fields,
shrink-swell and frost potential, hillside slippage, presence of loose sand, and bearing capacity. Suitability of
soil for supporting vegetation and whether basements and underground utilities are planned should be considered in the
final evaluation.
Tent and Camp Trailer Sites- These are areas suitable for tent and camp trailer sites and the accompanying activities for
outdoor living. They are used frequently during the camping Season. These areas require little site preparation.
They should be suitable for unsurfaced pa:::,king for Car and camp trailers and heavy foot treffic by humans, horses and
vehicular traffic. Factors considered 8re: wetness and flooding hazard, permeability, slope, surface soil texture,
coarse fragments and stDniness or rockiness. Suitability of soil for supporting vegetation should be considered in
the final evaluation.
Picnic Areas, Parks and Extensive, Play Areas- these are areas suitable for he8VY foot traffic and used' by people for the
consumption of food in a natural outdoor environment. Ratings are based on: wetness and flooding hazard, slope,
surface soil text.ure, stoniness and rockiness. llati,ngs do not include features as presence of trees or ponds which
may affect the desirability of a site. Suitability of sail for supporting vegetation should be considered in the
final evaluation.
Playgrounds, Athletic Fields and Intensive Play Areas- these areas are developed for playgrOllnds and organized games such
as baseball, football, tennis, badminton and the like. They are suhject to heavy foot traffic and generally require
a level surface, good drainage and a soil texcure and consistence that gives a firm surface. It is assumed that good
vegetative c over can be established and maintained on areas where needed.
Bridle Psths, Nature and Hiking Trails- this soil rating applies to areas that are to be used for trails, cross-country
hiking, bridle paths and other intensive uses' which allow for the movement of people. It is a.qsumed that these areas
are to be used as they occur in nature and that. little soil will be moved in providing this recreational use. The
most desirable soils from a physical standpoint far bridle paths, nature and hiking trails have good foot and hoof
trafficability. They are well drained, loamw in texture, and have nearly level to sloping surfaces. They have good
stability, are not subject to erosion or cutting out, and are free of coarse fragments and stones or rock outcrops.
Consideration should be given to placement of paths and trails on sloping relief on the contour to help control
erosion. Variability in slape gradient On paths and trails may serve to enhance interest but slopes should not
exceed 12 percent. for prolonged distances.
Golf Course Fairways- in evaluating soils for use in golf courses, consideration was given only to those features of the
soil that influence their use for fairways. Greens, traps, hazards, and t.ees are man-made, generally from disturbed,
transported soil material. For best use, fairways should be well drained and firm, be free of flooding during use
periods, have good trafficability, contain s minimum of coarse fragments or stones, and have gently undulating slopes.
They should be capable of supporting a good turf and be well suited for growing many kinds of trees and shrubs. Loamy
soils are best., but coarser textured soils serve equally well if irrigated. Poorly drained mineral and organic soils
have severe limitations but they may be used for pond sites t.o provide esthetic 'lalue or for storing water for turf
maintenance. Sandy soils likewise may be designed for hezards or used "S a source of sand for greens.
ESTIMATED PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Classifications- the classifications refer respectively to the USDA, Unified and ItASHO systems.
The USDA system is based on the relative proportion of various size groups of individual soil grains in a mass of soil.
This system refers to the proportion of sand, silt, and clay in a soil, giving rise to basic soil textural class
names, such as sand, sandy loam, loam, clay loam, silty clay loam, etc.
The Unified system is based an identification of soils according to their textural and plasticity qualities and their
grouping with respect to their performance as engineering construction materials. Percentage of gravel, sand and fines,
grain-size distribution, plasticity and compressibility characteristics form the basis of identification.
The American A8sociacion of State Highway Officials (AASHO) system of classifYing soils is an engineering property
classification. It is hssed on field performance of highways. According to t.his system, soils having about che same
general load-carrying capacity and service properties are grouped t.o form seven basic groups. These groups are
designated as A-I, A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5, A-6 and A-7. In general, the best soils for highway subgrades are olassified as
A-l, the next best are A-2, and so on with the poorest being A-7.
'!'".
!>,....
;.
,.
'"
-3-
% of Material Passing Sieve- the measured or estimated percentages of material passing the n~mbers 10, 40, and 200 sieves
are given for each maj or horizon. When there is very litHe gravel-size material (No. 10 sieve) present, the percent
passing the 200 sieve approximates the amount of silt and clay. Values are rounded off to the nearest 5 percent. A
range is liated because of the variability for a given soil.
Permeabili.ty- val~es listed are estimates of the range in rate and time it takes for downward movement of water in the major
soil layers when saturated, but allowed to drain freely. The estimates are based on soil texture, soil 3truC ture,
available date on permeability and infiltration tests, and observation of water movement through soils..
Availabl.. ,later Capacity- the available water capacity is given in inches per inch of soil for the major horhon.. Available
water capacity of the soil is the difference between percentage of moisture at field capacity and percentage of moisture
at the wilting point.
Soil Reaction- soil reaction or the intensity of soil acidity or alkalinity is expressed in pH. A pH of 7 is neutral, 10l<er
values indicate acidity and higher values show alkalinity.
Shrink-Swell Potential- indicates the volume change to be expected of the soil material with changes in moisture content.
INTERI'RETATIONS OF ENGINEERING PROPERTIES
Topsoil- the surface and subsoil horizons are rated as to their suitability for topsoil. "Topsoil" as used here refers to soil
material, preferably rich in organic matter thHc is used to topdress back slopes, embankments, lawns, gardens, etc. The
evaluation uses texture and organic matter content as a basis for determining the suitability. Usually, only the surrace
layers of a soil are used. However, in an area dominated with sandy soils, lDamy material is in great demand. Therefore,
an isolated area of medium textured soil might be stripped of not only the surface layer but also the subsoil layers. It
should be recognized that nutrients and structural deficiencies in the subeoil material will need to be corrected.
Sand and Gravel- suitability as a source of sand and gravel is given for material to a depth of 5 feet. In some sails, the
sand and gravel extends downward to depths much helow 5 feet, whereas in other areas of the same soil, unsuitable material
occurs just below 5 feet. It also should be recognized that some soils which are rated as not suitable may have sand and
gr,nel at a depth below 5 feet. Where the suitability is in question, individual test pits will be needed.
Road Subgrade and Highway Fills- suitability ratings for road fill for highway subgrade are based on performance of the soil
material when excavated and used as barrow for subgrade. Both the subsoil and substratum are rated when they are
contrasting in character and have significant thickness for use as barr~'. The ratings given here also can be used for
undisturbed soil~ if adjustments are made for features sucb as depth to water table, Dr bedrock, etc.
Highway Location- the soil features considered here are those that afrect the ove~all performance of the soil for the location
of highways. The entire soil profile is evaluated, based on an undisturbed soil without arti"~ciol. "'-"""f~. The
factors considered are: texture, presence of and thickness of peat or muck, depth to bedrock, presence of stones and
boulders, depth to water table, stability of back slopes, susceptibility to frost heave, flooding hazard, need for cuts
and fills, suitability far subgrade, and plasticity of the material.
Foundations for auildings- the factors considered are those features and quali t.ies {)f undisturbed soils tba t affect their
suitability for supporting foundations of buildings up to 3 stories high. It is.the substratum of the soil that usually
provides tbe base f{)r foundations and tllerefore is the soil material which is evaluated in this column. It is desirable
that the foundation be locat.ed, if possible, below the depth to \~hicb frost may cause heaving. The suitabili t.y of the
natural soil is dependent primarily on such factors as shrink-swell potential, shear strength, and compressibility of
the soil.
Pond Reservoir Areas- the factors considered here are those features and qualities of undisturbed soils that affect their
suitability ror water impoundments Or reservoirs. Of primary concern are factors that affect the seepage rate. Such
factors are permeability, depth to water table, depth to bedrock, Dr other unfavorable material that will allow seepage.
Dams, Dikes, Levees e>r Embankments- the factors considered here are those pr Dperties and qualities of disturbed soils that
affect their suitability for constructing pond embankments, dikes and levees. Both the subsoil and substratum are
evaluated where they are contrasting in character and have sufficient thickness far USA as barrow. Some of the soil
features that affect consLrucLiun are: sLability, compaction characteristics, susceptibility to piping, shrink-~well
potential, shesr strength, erosiveness, and compacted permeability.
Waterways~ the factors considered in the evaluation are stab Hi ty of soil material, texture and depth of soil material,
natural drainage, presence of stones, percenL.of slope, and difficulty of establishing and maintaining "egetation.
Agricultural Dreinage- this column lists the factors that affect agricultural drainage. Some of these factors are
permeability, depth to layers such as fragipan, claypan, sand, etc., topography, flooding Or stream overflow, and
corrosion potential.
Terraces and Diversions- the suitability of soils for terraces and diversions depends mainly on stability, texture and
thickness of soil materiel, difficulty of establishing and maintaining vegetation, and topography.
LIMITATIONS FOR SOME URBAN USeS
Residential DevelDpment with Public Sewer- the ratings apply to the use of soils for residences of J stories or less with
basements. Factors considered in making the ratings are wetness hazard, flooding hazard, slope, limi t-stions for
foundations, depth to bedrock, erosion hazard, and limitations for lawns, shrubs, and trees.
Residential Development without Public Sewer- the factors considered are the characteristics and qualities of the soil tbat
affect the suitability for absorbing waste from domestic sewage disposal systems. The major features considered are
soil permeability, percolation rate., ground water level, depth to bedrock, flooding hazards, and slope.
Buildings for Light Industrial, Commercial and Public Use- the factors considared are those features and qualities of
undisturbed soils that affect their suitability for supporting foundations of buildings up to J stories higb. It is
the subsoil and substratum of the soil that usually provides the base for foundations and therefore is the soil
material which is evaluated.
USlJA-SCS-L1NCOL.N. NEBR. I~~I!II
5, L-25790