Williams 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 Williams County, North Dakota.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Williams-Bowbells loams, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 184K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Williams-Bowbells loams, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 153K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Vida-Zahill loams, 2 to 8 percent slopes | 109K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Williams-Bowbells loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 77K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Williams-Zahl-Zahill complex, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 58K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Williams-Zahl loams, 3 to 6 percent slopes | 51K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Zahl-Williams-Zahill complex, 6 to 9 percent slopes | 48K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Williams-Bowbells loams, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 45K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Water | 40K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Amor-Zahl-Cabba loams, 9 to 25 percent slopes | 34K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Zahl-Williams loams, 9 to 15 percent slopes | 33K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Zahill-Vida loams, 4 to 15 percent slopes | 30K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Zahill loam, 15 to 60 percent slopes | 29K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Zahl-Cabba-Maschetah complex, 6 to 70 percent slopes | 21K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Livona fine sandy loam, 0 to 6 percent slopes | 20K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Appam sandy loam, 0 to 6 percent slopes | 19K | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Not limited | Very limited |
| Cabba-Badland complex, 6 to 70 percent slopes | 17K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Zahl-Max-Arnegard loams, 15 to 60 percent slopes | 16K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Parnell silty clay loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes, Missouri Coteau | 13K | Very poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Harriet and Stirum soils, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 12K | Poorly drained | D | Very 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 51% 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.