Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge Area, Alaska
The most common soil here is E31-Boreal taiga-silty frozen loess slopes, on about 17% of the land. E31-Boreal taiga-silty frozen slopes and E31-Boreal forest-loamy eolian slopes come next.
About 33% of the land drains well, and 67% stays wet for long stretches; groundwater comes within two feet of the surface under 97% of it.
USDA rates all of the land very limited for a standard septic drain field, and 83% very limited for homes with basements. That means extra cost or special design, not that it can't be done.
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 Poorly drained and the dominant hydrologic group is D (very slow infiltration, high runoff). The most common soil order is Gelisols — permafrost soils found in very cold climates. 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 Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Upland-Hills and Plains | 502K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Upland-Loess Plains and Peat Plateaus | 418K | Poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Upland and Subalpine-Rounded Mountains | 286K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Upland-Rounded Mountains, Acid | 202K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 144K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Alpine and Upland-Rugged Mountains | 33K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Upper Kobuk and Koyukuk Hills and Valleys-Boreal Upland and Lowland-Glaciated Valleys | 24K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Upper Kobuk and Koyukuk Hills and Valleys-Boreal Upland and Alpine-Rounded Mountains | 12K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Alpine and Upland-Rounded Mountains, Acid | 11K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Upland-Hills and Plains, Acid | 4K | Well drained | D | 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 83% of soils are rated "very limited" for dwellings with basements. Specific challenges include steep slopes, poor drainage in some areas. A geotechnical assessment is recommended before building.
Septic Systems
About 100% 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.