Islands of Airik, Arno, Majuro, Mili and Taroa, Republic of the Marshall Islands
The dominant drainage class is Somewhat excessively drained and the dominant hydrologic group is A (high infiltration, low 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 Islands of Airik, Arno, Majuro, Mili and Taroa, Republic of the Marshall Islands.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Majuro very cobbly loamy sand | 1K | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ngedebus loamy sand, dark surface | 960 | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Urban land-Ngedebus complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes, MLRA 196 | 949 | D | Not rated | Not rated | |
| Ngedebus loamy sand | 758 | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Majuro-Rubble land complex | 229 | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ngedebus very gravelly loamy sand | 200 | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ngedebus very gravelly loamy sand, dark surface | 184 | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Water | 13 | D | Not rated | Not rated | |
| Dumps | 4 | Not rated | Not rated |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 77% of soils are rated "very limited" for dwellings with basements. Specific challenges include flood-prone areas, sandy or gravelly soils with low bearing capacity. A geotechnical assessment is recommended before building.
Septic Systems
About 77% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. The well-drained soils may actually drain too fast for standard leach fields, allowing effluent to reach groundwater. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Soils tend to drain very quickly, meaning nutrients and water don't stick around long. Raised beds with amended soil, drip irrigation, and heavy mulching will give the best results. Compost is your best friend here — it improves water retention dramatically.