Kenai Peninsula - Kenai Fjords National Park and Bordering Area, Alaska
The dominant drainage class is Very poorly drained and the dominant hydrologic group is A/D (varies with drainage). 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 Kenai Peninsula - Kenai Fjords National Park and Bordering Area, Alaska.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexander Archipelago-Gulf of Alaska Coast-Maritime Water, Saline | 259K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Southern Alaska Coastal Mountains-Maritime Alpine-Barren Mountains | 255K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Southern Alaska Coastal Mountains-Maritime Subalpine and Alpine-Mountains | 84K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Alexander Archipelago-Gulf of Alaska Coast-Maritime Upland and Subalpine-Rounded Mountains | 83K | Very poorly drained | A/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Alexander Archipelago-Gulf of Alaska Coast-Maritime Subalpine and Alpine-Rounded Mountains | 15K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Southern Alaska Coastal Mountains-Maritime Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 3K | Very poorly drained | A/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Alexander Archipelago-Gulf of Alaska Coast-Maritime Lowland-Coastal Plains, Deltas and Mud Flats | 252 | Very poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Cook Inlet Mountains-Boreal Upland and Lowland-Valleys | 86 | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 63% 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 63% 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.