Tucumcari Area, Northern Quay County, New Mexico
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 Tucumcari Area, Northern Quay County, New Mexico.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quay loam, 0 to 5 percent slopes | 115K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Rock land | 98K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Ima sandy loam, 1 to 5 percent slopes | 80K | Well drained | A | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Montoya clay loam | 78K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Lacita silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 75K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Dallam fine sandy loam, 0 to 5 percent slopes | 55K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Redona fine sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 51K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Latom stony sandy loam, 3 to 9 percent slopes | 39K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Tivoli fine sand | 39K | Excessively drained | A | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Dallam loamy sand, 0 to 5 percent slopes | 34K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Tucumcari clay loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 33K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Latom-Rock outcrop complex, steep | 32K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Amarillo loamy fine sand, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 32K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Amarillo fine sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 30K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| San Jon loam, 1 to 5 percent slopes | 28K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Los Tanos sandy loam, 1 to 5 percent slopes | 27K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| La Lande loam, 0 to 5 percent slopes | 26K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Dune land | 21K | Excessively drained | Somewhat limited | Very limited | |
| Gallegos very gravelly loam, 9 to 25 percent slopes | 20K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Bascom-Potter loams, 1 to 9 percent slopes | 18K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Not limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 35% of soils have significant building limitations, while the rest are generally suitable. Check specific sites carefully — conditions vary across the area.
Septic Systems
About 52% 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.