Fannin and Union Counties, Georgia
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 Fannin and Union Counties, Georgia.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cowee-Evard complex, 25 to 45 percent slopes | 97K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Clifton-Evard complex, 10 to 25 percent slopes | 81K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| No Digital Data Available | 31K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Saunook-Evard complex, 10 to 25 percent slopes | 25K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Cowee-Evard complex, 45 to 60 percent slopes | 20K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Saunook-Evard complex, 25 to 45 percent slopes, stony | 20K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Porters loam, 25 to 45 percent slopes, stony | 19K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Bradson loam, 10 to 25 percent slopes | 13K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Chestnut loam, 45 to 60 percent slopes, stony | 12K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Chestnut loam, 25 to 45 percent slopes, stony | 12K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Clifton-Evard complex, 6 to 10 percent slopes | 11K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Thurmont fine sandy loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes | 10K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Porters loam, 45 to 60 percent slopes, stony | 9K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Junaluska-Tsali complex, 25 to 45 percent slopes | 9K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Cowee-Evard complex, 10 to 25 percent slopes | 8K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Water | 8K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Saunook-Porters complex, 45 to 60 percent slopes, stony | 7K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| French fine sandy loam, frequently flooded | 7K | Somewhat poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Hayesville fine sandy loam, 10 to 25 percent slopes | 6K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Arkaqua loam, frequently flooded | 6K | Somewhat poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 85% of soils are rated "very limited" for dwellings with basements. Specific challenges include shallow bedrock, steep slopes, poor drainage in some areas, flood-prone areas. A geotechnical assessment is recommended before building.
Septic Systems
About 88% 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.