Aleutian Islands - Sanak Islands Area, Alaska
The most common soil here is E26-Maritime dwarf scrub/herbaceous-ashy slopes, on about 6% of the land. E26-Maritime herbaceous-ashy slopes, sandy substratum and E26-Maritime herbaceous-ashy slopes come next.
About 21% of the land drains well.
USDA rates 21% of the land very limited for a standard septic drain field, and 21% very limited for homes with basements. That means extra cost or special design, not that it can't be done.
Worth knowing: 79% of the land floods occasionally or more, and bedrock lies within 40 inches under 21% 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 A (high infiltration, low runoff). The most common soil order is Andisols — soils formed in volcanic ash, very light and porous. 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 - Sanak Islands 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Alaska Peninsula Mountains-Maritime Water, Saline | 30K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Aleutian Islands-Western Alaska Peninsula-Maritime Upland-Glaciated Plains | 8K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Aleutian Islands-Western Alaska Peninsula-Maritime Upland-Rounded Mountains and Hills | 324 | Well drained | A | 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 21% of soils have significant building limitations, while the rest are generally suitable. Check specific sites carefully — conditions vary across the area.
Septic Systems
About 21% of soils have significant septic limitations, while others are more suitable. A perc test is essential — conditions vary across the area.
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.