Aleutian Islands - Attu Island Area, Alaska
The most common soil here is E26-Maritime scrub/herbaceous-gravelly colluvial slopes, on about 38% of the land. E26-Maritime herbaceous-gravelly colluvial cones and E26-Maritime scrub/herbaceous silty wet till slopes come next.
About 77% of the land drains well, and 12% stays wet for long stretches; groundwater comes within two feet of the surface under 12% of it.
USDA rates all of the land very limited for a standard septic drain field, and all very limited for homes with basements. That means extra cost or special design, not that it can't be done.
Worth knowing: 12% of the land floods occasionally or more, and bedrock lies within 40 inches under 88% of it.
Soils change over short distances, so look up an address below for the soil at that exact spot and the reasons behind each rating.
The biggest mapped areas
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is B (moderate infiltration). The most common soil order is Inceptisols — young soils with minimal horizon development but more than Entisols. This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in Aleutian Islands - Attu Island Area, Alaska. Search your address to find the exact soil composition, drainage, and series details at your specific location.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aleutian Islands-Western Alaska Peninsula-Maritime Upland-Rugged Mountains | 169K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Aleutian Islands-Western Alaska Peninsula-Maritime Upland-Plains and Hills | 27K | Poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Aleutian Islands-Western Alaska Peninsula-Maritime Upland-Barren Mountains | 24K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Aleutian Islands-Western Alaska Peninsula-Maritime Water, Saline | 0 | Very limited | Very limited |
Soil Orders in This Area
The USDA classifies every soil into one of 12 soil orders. Here are the dominant orders found in this survey area.
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 100% of soils are rated "very limited" for dwellings with basements. Specific challenges include steep slopes, poor drainage in some areas, flood-prone areas. A geotechnical assessment is recommended before building.
Septic Systems
About 100% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Well-drained soils on sloped terrain — good for most plants but watch for erosion. Terracing, contour planting, and mulching help retain moisture and topsoil. Drip irrigation is more effective than sprinklers on slopes.