Cedar County, Nebraska
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 Cedar County, Nebraska.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crofton-Nora complex, 6 to 11 percent slopes, eroded | 49K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Nora silt loam, 6 to 11 percent slopes, eroded | 38K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Alcester silty clay loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 34K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Moody silty clay loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes, eroded | 31K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Crofton-Nora complex, 11 to 17 percent slopes, eroded | 30K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Crofton silt loam, 17 to 30 percent slopes, eroded | 18K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Moody silty clay loam, 6 to 11 percent slopes, eroded | 18K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Crofton-Nora complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes, eroded | 17K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Thurman-Ortello complex, 6 to 11 percent slopes | 17K | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Loretto loam, sand substratum, 6 to 11 percent slopes | 16K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Betts clay loam, 6 to 15 percent slopes | 14K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Loretto loam, sand substratum, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 13K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Shell silt loam, occasionally flooded | 11K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Hobbs silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, occasionally flooded, cool | 9K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Maskell loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 9K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Aowa silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes, occasionally flooded | 8K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Nimbro silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, occasionally flooded | 8K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Redstoe silt loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 7K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Lamo silty clay loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, occasionally flooded | 7K | Poorly drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ortello fine sandy loam, 6 to 11 percent slopes | 7K | Well drained | A | 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 62% 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.