Divide County, North Dakota
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 Divide County, North Dakota.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zahl-Williams-Zahill complex, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 113K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Williams-Zahl loams, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 91K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Zahl-Williams loams, 9 to 15 percent slopes | 78K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Williams-Zahl loams, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 46K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Zahl-Max-Parnell complex, 0 to 35 percent slopes | 44K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Noonan-Niobell loams, 0 to 6 percent slopes | 39K | Moderately well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Parnell silty clay loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes, Missouri Coteau phase | 33K | Very poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Williams-Zahl-Parnell complex, 0 to 9 percent slopes | 26K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Williams-Niobell loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 24K | Moderately well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Noonan-Niobell-Tonka complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 24K | Moderately well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Zahl-Williams loams, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 19K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Southam silty clay loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes, Missouri Coteau phase | 19K | Very poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Williams-Niobell loams, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 14K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Wabek-Lehr-Appam complex, 9 to 25 percent slopes | 13K | Excessively drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Wabek-Lehr complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 10K | Excessively drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Miranda-Noonan loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 10K | Somewhat poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Dooley-Zahl complex, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 9K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Williams-Niobell loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 9K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Harriet, Regan, and Stirum soils, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 9K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Zahl-Williams loams, 9 to 15 percent slopes | 9K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
Most soils are generally favorable for residential construction. Standard foundations are usually viable, though site-specific evaluation is always recommended.
Septic Systems
About 54% 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.