Fayette County, Indiana
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 Fayette County, Indiana.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Russell silt loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes, eroded | 20K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Russell soils, 6 to 12 percent slopes, severely eroded | 10K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Russell silt loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 8K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Eel silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, frequently flooded | 7K | Moderately well drained | A/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Brookston silty clay loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 6K | Poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Russell silt loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes, moderately eroded | 5K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Fincastle silt loam, New Castle Till Plain, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 5K | Somewhat poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Genesee silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, frequently flooded, brief duration | 4K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Genesee loam | 3K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ockley silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Russell and Miami silt loams, 2 to 6 percent slopes, moderately eroded | 3K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Crosby silt loam, New Castle Till Plain, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 3K | Somewhat poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Hennepin loam, 25 to 35 percent slopes, slightly eroded | 3K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Russell soils, 12 to 18 percent slopes, severely eroded | 3K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Cincinnati silt loam, 25 to 45 percent slopes, eroded | 2K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Reesville silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 2K | Somewhat poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Russell silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 2K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Russell silt loam, 12 to 18 percent slopes, moderately eroded | 2K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Fox silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 2K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Russell silt loam, 18 to 25 percent slopes, slightly eroded | 2K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 43% of soils have significant building limitations, while the rest are generally suitable. Check specific sites carefully — conditions vary across the area.
Septic Systems
About 79% 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.