National Petroleum Reserve - Brooks Foothills South Area, Alaska
The dominant drainage class is Somewhat poorly drained and the dominant hydrologic group is B/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 National Petroleum Reserve - Brooks Foothills South Area, Alaska.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arctic Foothills-Arctic Upland-Hills and Plains | 6.1M | Somewhat poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Northern Brooks Range Mountains-Arctic Upland-Rugged Mountains | 437K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Northern Brooks Range Mountains-Arctic Upland-Rounded Mountains | 132K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arctic Foothills-Arctic Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 92K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Northern Brooks Range Mountains-Arctic Upland and Lowland-Glaciated Valleys | 59K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Northern Brooks Range Mountains-Arctic Upland-Rugged Mountains, Calcareous | 22K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arctic Foothills-Arctic Upland-Glaciated Hills and Plains | 21K | Poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Northern Brooks Range Mountains-Arctic Upland-Barren Mountains | 13K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Western Brooks Range Mountains, Foothills, and Valleys-Boreal Alpine-Rugged Mountains | 8K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Western Brooks Range Mountains, Foothills, and Valleys-Boreal Alpine-Glaciated Valleys | 1K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Western Brooks Range Mountains, Foothills, and Valleys-Boreal Alpine-Rugged Mountains, Calcareous | 800 | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Western Brooks Range Mountains, Foothills, and Valleys-Boreal Alpine-Rounded Mountains | 450 | Very limited | Very limited |
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. 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.