Jicarilla Apache Nation, Parts of Rio Arriba and Sandoval Counties, New Mexico
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is D (very slow infiltration, high 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 Jicarilla Apache Nation, Parts of Rio Arriba and Sandoval Counties, New Mexico.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parkelei-Menefee-Vessilla complex, 2 to 20 percent slopes | 93K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Ishkoten-Lajuita-Escrito complex, 15 to 60 percent slopes | 65K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Losindios-Escrito-Parkelei complex, 3 to 25 percent slopes | 53K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Rock outcrop-Vessilla-Menefee complex, 15 to 45 percent slopes | 50K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Doakum-Betonnie fine sandy loams, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 38K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Menefee-Vessilla-Rock outcrop complex, 5 to 35 percent slopes | 35K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Haplustalfs-Ustorthents complex, 25 to 70 percent slopes | 35K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
| Vosburg-Millpaw complex, 2 to 8 percent slopes | 27K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Elias-Canyada-Sparank complex, saline, sodic, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 24K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Somewhat limited |
| Orlie-Cementlake complex, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 22K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Escrito-Rock outcrop-Dulcepeak complex, 1 to 15 percent slopes | 22K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Vessilla-Menefee-Orlie complex, 1 to 30 percent slopes | 21K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Orlie-Nalivag loams, 2 to 8 percent slopes | 20K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Orlie loam, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 19K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Wilmac-Hosta-Millpaw complex, 1 to 10 percent slopes | 19K | Well drained | D | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Orlie fine sandy loam, 1 to 8 percent slopes | 19K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Blancot-Councelor-Tsosie complex, 0 to 5 percent slopes | 17K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Doakum very fine sandy loam, 1 to 6 percent slopes | 17K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Ishkoten-Lajuita complex, north aspect, 15 to 60 percent slopes | 16K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Doakum-Oro complex, 0 to 5 percent slopes | 16K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 42% of soils have significant building limitations, while the rest are generally suitable. Check specific sites carefully — conditions vary across the area.
Septic Systems
About 75% 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.