Soil and Soil Surveys

Much of our life’s activities and pursuits are related and influenced by the behavior of the soil around our houses, roads, septic and sewage disposal systems, airports, parks, recreation sites, farms, forests, schools and shopping centers. The characteristics of the soil beneath should guide what is put on its surface. Soil surveys give us the basic understanding of how to interpret and properly manage our soils, enabling us to become better stewards of our land.

SOIL is defined as a natural body made up of solids (minerals and organic matter), liquid, and gases that occurs on the land surface and is characterized by one or both of the following: having layers, called horizons, or the ability to support rooted plants in a natural environment. Areas with similar soils are grouped and labeled as soil series because their similar origins, chemical, and physical properties cause the soils to "behave" similarly for land use purposes. A soil series name generally is derived from a town or landmark in or near the area where the soil series was first recognized.

The soils of Washington state are as varied as our citizens with more than 1,600 different soils recognized and mapped. Soils are precious because it takes hundreds of years for productive soils to develop and they are difficult or impossible to replace once lost or damaged.

SOIL SURVEYS are scientific-based studies of the soil found in each U.S. county. They are made up of three major parts: maps, soil descriptions, and soil interpretations. A soil survey is prepared by soil scientists who determine the properties of soil and predict soil behavior for a host of uses. These predictions, often called interpretations, are developed to help users of soils to better manage this natural resource. The survey provides information about land use management, soil formation, and interpretations that can affect a wide range of rural and urban land uses. Some of these land uses would include:

• Building and construction stability, both private and commercial
• Road building and placement
• Sanitary facilities
• Construction material potential sources
• Woodland management and productivity
• Crop or grazing suitability and productivity
• Conservation applications

By taking advantage of information published in soil surveys, people will be able to make informed and educated decisions when it comes to land use.

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