Arctic National Wildlife Refuge - Beaufort Coastal Plain Area, Alaska
The dominant drainage class is Poorly drained and the dominant hydrologic group is D (very slow infiltration, high runoff). 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 Arctic National Wildlife Refuge - Beaufort Coastal Plain Area, Alaska.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arctic Coastal Plain-Arctic Lowland-Alluvial Plains | 574K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arctic Foothills-Arctic Upland-Loess Plains and Hills | 425K | Very poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arctic Coastal Plain-Water, Saline | 218K | Not limited | Not limited | ||
| Arctic Foothills-Arctic Upland-Glaciated Hills and Plains | 106K | Poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arctic Coastal Plain-Arctic Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 90K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Arctic Coastal Plain-Arctic Lowland-Barren Beaches, Bays and Lakes | 60K | Not limited | Not limited | ||
| Arctic Coastal Plain-Arctic Lowland-Coastal Plains, Low | 51K | Very poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arctic Foothills-Arctic Upland-Hills and Plains | 32K | Somewhat poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arctic Foothills-Arctic Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 22K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arctic Coastal Plain-Arctic Lowland-Coastal Plains, High | 8K | Very poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Northern Brooks Range Mountains-Arctic Upland-Rugged Mountains, Calcareous | 2K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 82% 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 82% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Poorly drained soils can't absorb septic effluent effectively. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Many soils hold water for extended periods. Raised beds are highly recommended to improve drainage for vegetables. Well-adapted native plants and water-loving species will do best in natural conditions.