Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge 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 Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge Area, Alaska.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Upland-Eolian Plains, Sand Hills, and Dunes | 619K | Somewhat excessively drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Highlands-Boreal Upland-Rounded Mountains | 396K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Highlands-Boreal Upland-Plains and Hills | 243K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Upland-Loess Plains and Hills | 241K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Lowland-High Flood Plains and Terraces, Wet | 174K | Very poorly drained | A/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Highlands-Boreal Upland-Loess Hills | 123K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 120K | Poorly drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Lowland-High Flood Plains and Terraces | 109K | Poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces, Wet | 74K | Very poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Highlands-Boreal Upland and Lowland-Valleys and Flood Plains | 60K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Highlands-Boreal Upland-Valleys | 35K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 12K | Very poorly drained | B/D | 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.