Western Ahklun Mountains Area, Alaska
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is B (moderate infiltration). 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 Western Ahklun Mountains Area, Alaska.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ahklun Mountains-Northwest Maritime Upland-Rounded Mountains | 1.1M | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ahklun Mountains-Northwest Maritime Upland-Glaciated Plains and Hills | 734K | Somewhat excessively drained | A/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Coastal Plain-Maritime Lowland-Plains | 594K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ahklun Mountains-Northwest Maritime Upland-Rugged Mountains, Acid | 116K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Coastal Plain-Maritime Lowland-Coastal Plains, High | 106K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Coastal Plain-Boreal Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 46K | Very poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Coastal Plain-Maritime Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 20K | Very poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ahklun Mountains-Northwest Maritime Upland and Boreal Upland-Rounded Mountains | 19K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ahklun Mountains-Northwest Maritime Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces | 9K | Somewhat poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ahklun Mountains-Northwest Maritime Lowland-Coastal Plain | 5K | Very poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ahklun Mountains-Northwest Maritime Upland-Rugged Mountains, Dark Sedimentary | 309 | Well drained | Very limited | Very limited | |
| Yukon-Kuskokwim Coastal Plain-Maritime Lowland-Coastal Plains, Mid-Level | 107 | Very poorly drained | 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. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Well-drained soils on sloped terrain — good for most plants but watch for erosion. Terracing, contour planting, and mulching help retain moisture and topsoil. Drip irrigation is more effective than sprinklers on slopes.